When faced with the challenge of finding the perfect home, individuals may consider the option of constructing their own residence. In such instances, a decision must be made between opting for a stick-built house or a prefab home. A stick-built house refers to the traditional method of construction, wherein a
The Hill Group, a leading privately-owned housebuilder, recorded £150 million of land investments during 2023, significantly boosting the company’s pipeline by over three thousand new homes. The investments, which span the breadth of the South of England, represent Hill’s commitment to delivering much-needed, sustainable new homes, either as part of
The scheme officially completed last week with the final light being installed at Edith Sykes Drive in east Leeds. Leeds City Council today announces the completion of its LED lighting scheme, an extensive project aimed at improving energy efficiency in street lighting throughout the city. Initiated in December 2018, the
HS2’s London tunnels programme passed a major milestone as the third tunnel boring machine (TBM) being used as part of the project was launched. TBM Emily, named after Emily Sophia Taylor who helped establish the Perivale Maternity Hospital in 1937 before becoming Ealing’s first female mayor in 1938, will be
Levelling Up Secretary Michael Gove MP, and Shadow Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner MP, will deliver keynote speeches at this year’s Convention of the North, it can be revealed. The Convention, which will be held in Leeds across two days on 29 February and 1 March, is the North of
Knauf is thrilled to announce its sponsorship of the Construction Excellence SECBE Awards 2024. The prestigious regional awards, renowned for its commitment to recognising excellence and innovation in the construction industry across London and the South East, are set to take place on June 27th 2024. As a returning sponsor,
On the heels of 32 years of infrared (IR) fusion development, GF Piping Systems introduces the IR-63 M, a new IR welding machine that maintains established technology while integrating new hardware and software features for faster, more convenient, and more efficient welding. Thanks to a machine-controlled process, IR fusion machines ensure
Construction site wages were down by an average of 0.7% in 4Q2023 compared with the previous quarter, and up by 3.1% on an annual basis, the latest data from the Hays/BCIS Site Wage Cost Indices shows. Compared with 3Q2023, unskilled and semi-skilled workers’ wages showed the only growth, while all
WITH the sale of the BT Tower in London being announced this week, the opportunity to re-imagine the UK’s most iconic buildings is back in the zeitgeist. Bill Webb, co-founder and director at Able Partners highlights the importance of repurposing buildings around the UK to extend their lifespan into the
Practical Completion has been achieved at Stadium Retail Park, a commercial development in Long Eaton, Derbyshire, that will be home to new locations for Lidl GB and Wickes. The site has been brought forward by Clowes Developments. IMA Architects (IMA) has worked with Clowes Developments to provide all architectural services
When faced with the challenge of finding the perfect home, individuals may consider the option of constructing their own residence. In such instances, a decision must be made between opting for a stick-built house or a prefab home. A stick-built house refers to the traditional method of construction, wherein a team of workers assembles the home on-site over several months, incorporating plumbing and electrical systems as they go. On the other hand, a prefab home is constructed from pre-built components, offering a streamlined and efficient alternative to traditional construction methods. But, a confusion generally persists – are prefab homes good or bad? If you’re wondering that, don’t worry! We’ve got you covered. This article, you can learn about prefab homes, their benefits and disadvantages. What Is a Prefab Home? The term “prefab” is short for prefabricated, which briefly summarises the essence of prefab homes. These residences are manufactured in a controlled factory environment and transported in their entirety to the designated site for assembly. Compared to traditional homes, prefab homes offer a notably simplified construction and relocation process. Prefab homes typically come in three primary categories: manufactured, kit, and modular. Here’s a concise overview of each: Manufactured Homes: These homes are constructed in sections and assembled on-site by professionals using heavy machinery. They are subject to regulatory standards set by the country’s local Government. Kit Homes: Kit homes are simpler in design compared to manufactured homes but follow a similar construction process. In fact, many homebuyers can assemble kit homes themselves, making them a more accessible option. Modular Homes: Offering greater customisation options, modular homes allow for personalised floor plans tailored to individual preferences. Unlike manufactured and kit homes, modular homes are built on a fixed foundation, providing stability and durability. The Pros of Prefab Homes Prefab homes come with some significant benefits, including: Exceptional Energy Efficiency Prefab homes offer a multitude of benefits, foremost among them being their exceptional energy efficiency. Through meticulous construction, these homes boast tight seams and cutting-edge windows, effectively retaining heat and resulting in reduced energy bills. Additionally, the sturdy construction of modular homes grants them a reputation for resilience against natural disasters, offering homeowners added security and peace of mind. Contrary to common misconception, prefab homes are not synonymous with mobile homes. Prefabricated or modular, these homes are installed on a foundation like any other traditional home. Renowned for their high-quality craftsmanship, contemporary design, and sophistication, these homes cater to individuals seeking both sustainability and style in their living spaces. Fast Construction Swift construction stands as a key benefit of prefab homes. With ready-made components, assembly is simplified, minimizing on-site labor and utility connections. This efficiency, reflected in the term “modular,” expedites construction, reducing labor days and vulnerability to weather delays and illnesses. However, beyond construction speed, site preparation, including permit acquisition, can prolong the process. Thus, while prefab homes offer rapid assembly, additional time for site readiness and regulatory compliance is essential. Modular home assembly often uses pre-measured structural components like joist hangers, brackets and pre-cut rods to make the build process more straightforward. These parts arrive ready to install, helping ensure a consistent fit across each section of the home. In comparison, traditionally built houses are usually measured and cut on site, which gives more flexibility but can sometimes lead to small inconsistencies. Affordability Constructing a prefab home typically costs less than a comparable stick-built home, primarily due to reduced labor expenses. With fewer laborers working fewer days, prefab homes become move-in-ready more efficiently, translating to cost savings for homeowners. Additionally, heating and cooling expenses are often more economical in prefab homes compared to conventional ones. If considering existing home options, it’s prudent to compare market prices with prefab construction costs. Keep in mind that the level of fittings and customisation can influence prefab costs. Engage with the manufacturer to explore cost-saving strategies tailored to your needs. The Cons of Prefab Homes Like all the other homes, prefab homes also come with some disadvantages, such as, Land Costs To erect a prefab home, you must own the land beneath it. If not, purchasing land is necessary. Ensure the land permits prefab construction and utility hookup. Conduct soil tests on the designated land. Acquiring land, undergoing inspections, and obtaining permits entail costs, time, and effort. Some prefab home companies offer assistance, securing permits and incorporating expenses into the modular home’s cost. More Up-Front Payments When purchasing an existing home, a down payment of approximately 20% is typical, with the remainder repaid through a mortgage over time. Prefab homes often require upfront payment for construction before occupancy. Contracts outline installment schedules during construction. Ensuring affordability before commitment is crucial due to this pay-as-you-go approach. While upfront payment reduces interest costs, it necessitates financial readiness before purchasing and erecting a prefab home. Utilities Might Be Tough to Find Prefabricated homes pose challenges in coordinating utilities and site preparations. Leveling uneven terrain, laying foundations, and arranging sewer and electrical connections are necessary. Additionally, accessing city water or drilling for well water may be required. Consider prefab homes that offer assistance in managing these tasks, alleviating potential complexities. You can also hire a professional provider of building and property maintenance like Fixx, who can do this work for you. Conclusion Prefab home costs fluctuate depending on personal involvement and outsourcing. Some choose DIY kits, assembling with friends, while others prefer professional construction services, willing to pay for convenience. Consider your preferences and capabilities before selecting a prefab route. DIY projects offer cost savings but require time, effort, and skill. Contrarily, professional services reduce construction responsibilities but come at a higher price. Assess your budget, skills, and timeframe to determine the best approach. Whichever path you choose, ensure a thorough understanding of the process and associated commitments. With careful consideration, you can embark on your prefab home journey confidently, achieving your desired outcome within your means.
The Hill Group, a leading privately-owned housebuilder, recorded £150 million of land investments during 2023, significantly boosting the company’s pipeline by over three thousand new homes. The investments, which span the breadth of the South of England, represent Hill’s commitment to delivering much-needed, sustainable new homes, either as part of its development activity or as a partner of choice. Hill’s investments encompass 11 developments with a gross development value (GDV) of £1.3 billion delivering 3,000 new homes, of which over 44% (+1,300) will be designated as affordable. Nine of the developments are expected to start on site by the end of 2024, with the remaining pair anticipated to begin in 2025. All of the developments have planning. Hill made its series of 2023 investments during a period of increased economic uncertainty, demonstrating a proactive and long-term approach, positioning the housebuilder for strong growth in 2025. The developments include two joint ventures with Peabody and two sites delivered in partnership with Cambridge City Council, highlighting Hill’s collaborative approach to delivering high-quality housing and regeneration projects. In the same year, Hill also invested heavily in its future pipeline with several acquisitions in strategic land sites, including Warwickshire and Essex. A total of four strategic land options were procured for the company, with the potential for over 9,500 new homes with a GDV of over £3 billion. Andy Hill OBE, Group Chief Executive of The Hill Group comments, “The recent economic downturn presents both challenges and opportunities. By strategically securing these developments at a time when market conditions are advantageous, we are ensuring a robust pipeline of projects ready to commence construction as and when planning approvals are secured. This approach will ensure The Hill Group remains well positioned in preparation for an expected recovery in market conditions. “Our robust financial position and agile decision-making capabilities have also allowed us to capitalise on strategic land acquisitions, setting ourselves up for growth over the next decade and beyond.” Hill’s 2023 investment strategy includes numerous significant developments, including the delivery of St Ann’s in Haringey in joint venture partnership with Peabody. The landmark project on the site of a former hospital will eventually deliver up to 1000 homes, of which 600 will be affordable. The company’s recent land acquisition of Little Chalfont Park in Buckinghamshire represents an exciting opportunity to develop 380 homes in a prime commuter belt location, providing homes for people at all stages of life; from first-time buyers through to families, retirees, and those needing later-life care. Furthermore, Raleigh Road in Bristol will deliver in excess of 100 homes on the site of the former Wills Tobacco factory, transforming a historic landmark into a vibrant new community hub. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The scheme officially completed last week with the final light being installed at Edith Sykes Drive in east Leeds. Leeds City Council today announces the completion of its LED lighting scheme, an extensive project aimed at improving energy efficiency in street lighting throughout the city. Initiated in December 2018, the programme has successfully converted over 89,000 streetlights to new LED lamps, in partnership with street lighting partner Enerveo (subcontractor to Tay Valley Lighting). The completion of the LED Lighting Scheme is expected to bring significant annual savings of £3.4 million in electricity costs at current energy prices. Additionally, the conversion to LED lighting is projected to reduce street lighting energy consumption by approximately 62%, resulting in 7,050 tonnes of carbon savings, with savings already being made throughout the lamp replacement. The new LED lanterns offer increased durability and recyclability, leading to enhanced efficiency and reduced emissions from maintenance visits. Public consultation, conducted from November 2017 to January 2018, showed strong support for the upgrade, with over 80% of respondents endorsing the initiative. Councillor Helen Hayden, Executive Member for Sustainable Development and Infrastructure, attended the installation of the final LED light on Edith Sykes Drive in east Leeds this week, marking the conclusion of the project. Councillor Hayden said: “The completion of the LED Lighting Scheme represents a significant milestone in our efforts to enhance energy efficiency and sustainability in Leeds. This investment will deliver immediate cost savings and lay the groundwork for future advancements in smart technology” Tom Cunningham, Tay Valley Lighting (Leeds) Director, said: “We have been delighted to support Leeds City Council investment on the LED lantern works, the investment has provided many benefits, local employment opportunities during the period, reducing energy consumption and maintenance activities resulting in significant cost savings to Leeds City Council and carbon reduction impact from the project”. As Leeds continues its commitment to environmental stewardship and technological innovation, the completion of the LED Lighting Scheme underscores the council’s dedication to building a more sustainable future for the city and its residents. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
HS2’s London tunnels programme passed a major milestone as the third tunnel boring machine (TBM) being used as part of the project was launched. TBM Emily, named after Emily Sophia Taylor who helped establish the Perivale Maternity Hospital in 1937 before becoming Ealing’s first female mayor in 1938, will be used to dig almost half of the 8.4-mile Northolt Tunnel. She will bore 3.4 miles under Ealing from Victoria Road Crossover Box, near HS2’s new Old Oak Common station, to Greenpark Way in Greenford. HS2’s London Tunnels contractor, Skanska Costain STRABAG joint venture, assembled the TBM underground at the Victoria Road site after being lifted in parts and lowered into a shaft. Manufactured by world-leading tunnelling experts, Herrenknecht in Germany, TBM Emily weighs 1,700 tonnes and has a 9.11m diameter cutterhead. The TBM is an earth pressure balance machine, which is designed specifically for the soft London clay that will be extracted from the ground. Speaking about the next TBM launching in London for HS2, Malcolm Codling, project Client Director, HS2 Ltd, said: “We are working at peak construction on HS2, delivering the tunnels which HS2 trains will travel through under London. The preparation to launch TBM Emily has been complex and we remain on schedule to complete the Northolt Tunnel in 2025.” The Northolt Tunnel will carry HS2 trains in and out of London – extending between the new Old Oak Common superhub and the outskirts of the capital at West Ruislip. The twin-bore tunnel is being built in two sections. Two TBMs, named Sushila and Caroline, are already constructing it eastward between West Ruislip and Greenford. Another two – Emily and Anne – are being used to dig the tunnel in the opposite direction from Victoria Road Crossover Box to Greenford. Emily and Anne’s tunnel drive will cover 3.4 miles of the tunnel in total – slightly less than those being used on the other section. Emily was launched today and Anne – the fourth and final Northolt TBM – will launch next month. The quartet of TBMs are all set to complete their journeys in 2025, when they will be extracted from the ground through giant shafts at Greenpark Way. The London Clay, that will be extracted to build the tunnel, will be taken away from Victoria Road Crossover Box by conveyor, and taken to the London Logistics Hub at Willesden Euro Terminal. From there, it will be taken by rail and reused at sites in Cambridgeshire, Kent and Rugby. James Richardson, Managing Director of Skanska Costain STRABAG joint venture (SCS JV), said: “The HS2 London Tunnels team are well on the way to delivering a new railway into the heart of London with the launch of TBM Emily. Next month, we will be launching TBM Anne who together with Emily will form the tunnel from old Oak Common to Greenpark Way Shaft where they will meet with TBMs Sushila and Caroline, who are already halfway to completing their journeys from West Ruislip.” HS2 is also making progress on preparations on the separate tunnel between Old Oak Common and Euston – the line’s ultimate central London terminus. The Atlas Road Logistics Tunnel breakthrough in January. The logistics tunnel is runs from the Old Oak Common Station box to Atlas Road logistics site and will facilitate the tunnelling operation to construct the Euston Tunnel. Two further TBMs will be delivered to Old Oak Common later this year, and placed into the underground box, ready to begin boring the Euston Tunnel. Following the Government’s Network North announcement in October last year, the funding and delivery arrangements for the Euston Tunnel are being reviewed. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Levelling Up Secretary Michael Gove MP, and Shadow Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner MP, will deliver keynote speeches at this year’s Convention of the North, it can be revealed. The Convention, which will be held in Leeds across two days on 29 February and 1 March, is the North of England’s flagship annual gathering for business, political and civic society leaders. The conferences are spearheaded by Northern partnership network NP11, which brings together local government and private sector leaders. The high-profile event will provide a platform for public and private sector voices to debate the challenges and opportunities facing the region, across a series of key areas including transport, energy, trade and investment, and health and culture. Jointly hosted by West Yorkshire Mayor Tracy Brabin and Chair of NP11 Clare Hayward, this year’s Convention will build on previous events in Rotherham, Gateshead, Liverpool and Manchester. Over 800 representatives are expected to attend, including metro mayors, council leaders and business leaders. A delegation of 50 young people, organised by grassroots organisation Citizens UK, will be invited to take part in policy workshops and a session with non-profit mentorship network Power Collective CIC. Following action-focused workshops on the first day, Bolton-born chief BBC news presenter and correspondent Clive Myrie will lead a series of panel discussions and speeches, culminating in a “Manifesto for the North” to guide future work for the region and the next government. A new focus for this year’s Convention will be the recent historic advances in the field of artificial intelligence, and the enormous potential of these to reshape the economy and society of the North of England. Leading a keynote session on how the North can play a leading role in this “fourth industrial revolution” will be AI experts from the University of Bradford, Microsoft UK and Starship Technologies. There will also be a high-profile metro mayors and political leaders panel focused on the future of devolution in England, and its potential to give a louder voice to the North to champion its collective offer and make a greater contribution to the national prosperity of the UK. New research from NP11 and Transport for the North reveals that with the right powers and investment, the North of England’s economy could grow by £118 billion by 2050, transforming the lives and living standards of people across the region and the rest of the country. In what looks set to be a pivotal election year, Conservative Secretary of State Michael Gove MP and Deputy Leader of the Labour Party Angela Rayner MP will be invited to listen to the ambitions of Northern communities and businesses, and set out their parties’ visions for the region over the coming years. Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire, said: “As our unified Northern voice continues to grow in strength, so too do the challenges and opportunities facing our economies, communities and businesses. “From transitioning to renewable energy, to building a 21st century transport system, to leveraging our creativity to attract investment, this is a once-in-a-lifetime chance for the North. “In a pivotal election year, it is vital that all political parties listen to the ambitions of Northern leaders, and I am delighted that both Michael Gove and Angela Rayner will be joining us.” Clare Hayward MBE, Chair of NP11, said: “The Convention of the North is giving lawmakers, stakeholders and business voices the chance to come together and determine a manifesto of the North, for the North, by the North. “It will be fantastic to have representatives from both Government and the Opposition to engage with us and to better understand the opportunities the region can bring to the table. “Our intention is to create a sustainable, healthy, inclusive and connected economy which will empower the North, allowing the region’s businesses to spearhead the growth of the UK economy. “It will be encouraging to hear Michael Gove and Angela Rayner’s pitch to the North and how we can build on those relationships.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Knauf is thrilled to announce its sponsorship of the Construction Excellence SECBE Awards 2024. The prestigious regional awards, renowned for its commitment to recognising excellence and innovation in the construction industry across London and the South East, are set to take place on June 27th 2024. As a returning sponsor, Knauf is particularly honoured to support the Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) category. This category seeks to celebrate organisations and projects that demonstrate outstanding commitment to social, economic, and environmental sustainability. Knauf’s sponsorship of this category is testament to its own dedication to environmental and social responsibility. Knauf’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond sponsorship of the SECBE Awards. Knauf actively engages in initiatives designed to minimise environmental impact and support social causes by delivering to its customers, an accredited waste management service called ‘Knauf – Plasterboard Take Back Scheme’ through its partner Encore. Giving customers access to initiatives such as ProjectDIVERT, and Waste Wise Kids to divert waste from landfills and educate children on environmental conservation in local communities. The SECBE Awards has always been hallmarked by its rigorous judging process, ensuring that only the most deserving projects and organisations are recognised. As sponsors of the ESG category, Knauf is excited to be part of the judging panel and looks forward to hearing the inspiring stories and innovative solutions from participants. Emma Delaney, HR & Sustainability Director at Knauf, said: “We are eager to see the remarkable contributions and achievements within the ESG category. At Knauf, we are deeply committed to sustainability and corporate responsibility. Sponsoring the ESG category aligns perfectly with our company’s values and vision, and we are proud to support initiatives that promote positive change within our industry and communities.” Knauf extends its best wishes to all participants and invites industry colleagues to join them at the Annual Awards Ceremony Dinner on June 27th, 2024. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
On the heels of 32 years of infrared (IR) fusion development, GF Piping Systems introduces the IR-63 M, a new IR welding machine that maintains established technology while integrating new hardware and software features for faster, more convenient, and more efficient welding. Thanks to a machine-controlled process, IR fusion machines ensure contact-free and high-quality welds in sectors such as chemical processing, microelectronics, or water treatment where a long-lasting and safe operation is crucial. With the IR-63 M, Swiss flow solutions provider GF Piping Systems set out to further simplify and expedite the welding process for materials such as PVDF, ECTFE, PP-H, PP-n, PE, or PVC-U. The updates have resulted in 20% shorter preparation times, 30% fewer installation steps, and 50% shorter cooling times. The IR-63 M enhances the user experience with both hardware and software improvements. The machine features a 7” touchscreen protected by safety glass, offering intuitive navigation and multilingual instructions for a streamlined user experience. Moreover, an integrated Connectivity Box facilitates access to GF Piping Systems’ cloud service CONNECT Welding Data, enabling the seamless transfer of welding protocols and documentation. GF Piping Systems has also improved the operational experience with extensive hardware updates for more flexibility and precision: The IR-63 M features an optimized clamping unit and a patented adjustable pipe stop, both with angle markings for increased precision and user friendliness. The machine also comes with an updated facer concept and redesigned tube drive which allows flanged components to be welded on both sides of the machine. Jointing complex projects, whether at the workstation or directly at the installation site, is further simplified by the option of remote welding. Simon Worni, Head of Global Product Management Systems at GF Piping Systems, comments the launch: “Our aim is to redefine tomorrow by combining cutting-edge technology with unparalleled accessibility. With the IR-63 M, we maintain the simplicity, robustness, and compactness of our existing machine while integrating the latest advancements to deliver an enhanced customer experience. The comprehensive improvements – which cover everything from the fusion machine’s design to innovative user guidance and connectivity – not only make infrared fusion more user-friendly but have also resulted in a faster and more efficient fusion process.” Since pioneering contact-free IR fusion technology in 1992, GF Piping Systems has remained at the forefront of innovation. The IR-63 M builds upon this legacy, ushering in a new era of precision and efficiency in infrared welding. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Construction site wages were down by an average of 0.7% in 4Q2023 compared with the previous quarter, and up by 3.1% on an annual basis, the latest data from the Hays/BCIS Site Wage Cost Indices shows. Compared with 3Q2023, unskilled and semi-skilled workers’ wages showed the only growth, while all other index values decreased or remained static. Skill Level Percentage change 4Q2023 on: 3Q2023 4Q2022 All-in -0.7% 3.1% Building Trades Skilled -2.8% 1.8% Mechanical and Electrical Trades Skilled -0.8% 5.7% Plant Operatives 0.0% 0.0% Unskilled and Semi-skilled 0.4% 7.7% Source: BCIS, Hays The greatest annual growth was also seen among unskilled and semi-skilled workers, whose pay was on average 7.7% higher than in 4Q2022, while plant operatives’ wages remained unchanged for the year. BCIS Solutions Architect Paul Burrows, who compiles the indices for BCIS and Hays, said: “While unskilled rates are being pushed upwards by increases to the National Living Wage, declining workload is pushing rates down for the higher skilled roles and in the middle we have no movement. “Overall, this is compressing the wage scale for construction site labour, effectively reducing the gap between the highest and lowest paid grades.” Hays also reported fewer construction job placements in 4Q2023, continuing a decrease which has been seen since 2Q2021. Burrows said: “The latest figures from ONS show that overall output in the construction sector in 4Q2023 was in negative territory, which was a significant contributor to the UK economy entering into recession in the same period. “New orders data, which is a snapshot of future work, was down 30.2% in 4Q2023 compared with 4Q2022, so upwards pressure on wages isn’t likely to be an issue in the short-term.” The Hays/BCIS Site Wage Cost Indices are produced using market data from Hays Recruitment, generally representing labour requirements for immediate fulfilment. Because of this, the indexes tend to be more volatile and faster to react to changes in market conditions than other labour indices. The BCIS Labour Cost Index, for example, incorporates the movement in nationally agreed wage awards, which are generally updated annually, across the industry. Promulgated rates that took effect in January 2024 include a 7% increase for plumbers and electricians in England and electricians in Scotland, and a 1.5% increase for asphalters. Notes: BCIS works with Hays Recruitment to track movement in the cost of site labour in the construction industry by providing the Hays/BCIS Site Wage Cost Indices. The indexes were launched at the beginning of 2020 and are based on market data provided by Hays, reflecting movement in the market for agency labour on a quarterly basis. For more information about BCIS, visit the website at www.bcis.co.uk Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
WITH the sale of the BT Tower in London being announced this week, the opportunity to re-imagine the UK’s most iconic buildings is back in the zeitgeist. Bill Webb, co-founder and director at Able Partners highlights the importance of repurposing buildings around the UK to extend their lifespan into the future and manage embodied carbon – all while protecting much-loved buildings and providing opportunity for architects to stretch their creative muscles outside of client work. As well as being an iconic part of the London skyline since the 1960s, the BT Tower contains a huge amount of embodied carbon. That’s two very good reasons for not demolishing the structure, even though its original use is now facing obsolescence as communication becomes digital. That opens a wealth of opportunity to re-imagine the space and make better use of it into the future. The reality will see a hotel developed in the 177m high tower for new owner MCR Hotels, and with the nature of the Grade II listed structure, the industry will be looking forward to seeing the designs from Heatherwick Studio. The architects of the world especially, knowing it’s bound to be a rewarding and interesting design process ahead. The protective nature of repurposing This change of use reminds us of the importance of evaluating space – is it still serving its purpose, or has it served its successful lifespan? If the answer is no, then the possibilities are endless, but the benefits are clear. We all know the important role the built environment has to play in a more sustainable world. Most of the building that will make a difference to meeting net zero already exist, but the solution isn’t to simply knock down old buildings and start afresh. Not only would this need a great deal of consideration and management when it comes to embodied carbon, it creates a great deal of work that isn’t necessary. Lots of buildings hold potential as varied as the BT Tower within them, and it’s all about unlocking what works into the future for an owner or occupier. Not only this, but the UK’s buildings also – especially older ones – have a great deal of heritage and often hold a place in people’s hearts. Simply put, it’s not always the most practical solution, but to knock them down would in many people’s eyes be close to sacrilege – especially when we can create something really special with unique character that also suits future requirements. For architects, these buildings provide a fun, creative and challenging approach to making better, more sustainable use of what we have. Any existing building holds potential to be reworked into something extraordinary, but historic buildings have another level of potential bringing up to modern standards, protecting against release of embodied carbon and erasure from our current streetscapes. Whether it’s a hugely iconic London building, or a particularly well-loved town centre building – demolition is not the answer, and repurposing not only protects, but enhances what any building has to offer. At Able, we’re passionate about spreading this mentality to wider assets and all projects that pass through our doors – as well as re-imagining our most iconic and much-loved buildings to extend their lifespans into the future. Research and development Many architects focus on simply producing their client work, but a great deal of enjoyment lies in an architectural challenge – even one outside of client work. Dedicating time to designing simply to design is a fantastic creative development opportunity for architects, and one we focus on here at Able. Indeed, the BT Tower has captured our own imagination for many years, especially being just around the corner from our base in Fitzrovia. It’s one of the buildings we have produced our own visualisations of in the past alongside WSP – and the difference between what we came up with and what is now in the works with MCR Hotels and Heatherwick Studio shows the wide scope of opportunities that lie in these buildings. To give the building a new lease of life, we leaned into using the building’s unique structure and height, stripping away the telecoms functions that are no longer needed, placing these elements into new casing and reusing as much existing material as possible. By replacing them with demountable, modular structures, as well as circular water strategies and PVs, our goal was to ensure the circularity of the building well into the future. Our ideas begin with a safe but exciting route up the structure for those ‘Instagram moments’. This provides plenty of opportunity to maximise the views up its 177m height from co-working, office and hotel spaces – the possibilities are endless. A series of indoor and outdoor galleries would provide 360 views of the London skyline via raked seating, along with a restaurant space – adding a new spot to the capital’s ‘must-see’ sights. A final note Ultimately, the re-imagining of any building is an exciting prospect, providing so many different avenues to take it forward into a new chapter of its life, even if – like with the BT Tower – its original use is no longer needed. And with sustainability and meeting net zero targets front of mind, it doubles the importance of making what we have much better. There are so many great buildings out there that are not quite attractive enough for the modern tenant, or simply no long serving a purpose. What we can do as architects is make them fantastic again – creating more sustainable developments and making sure they don’t disappear from our streetscapes and skylines. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Practical Completion has been achieved at Stadium Retail Park, a commercial development in Long Eaton, Derbyshire, that will be home to new locations for Lidl GB and Wickes. The site has been brought forward by Clowes Developments. IMA Architects (IMA) has worked with Clowes Developments to provide all architectural services and act as Principal Designer on the scheme. The company has also worked alongside Millward Consulting Engineers and Roe Developments to deliver the site for Lidl and Wickes. The retailers will now bring in their own teams to carry out the bespoke fit out of the two stores. The 1.68-hectare Stadium Retail Park site has been built on a brownfield former industrial site that was derelict since 2014, located just off Nottingham Road. All amenities, landscaping and boundary treatments are now in place including car parking for 170 vehicles, including EV charging, parent and child parking and disabled spaces, and a service yard. It is expected that the new Wickes store will open before the Easter Weekend, and that the Lidl supermarket will open this summer. Marc Freeman, Director at Clowes Developments said: “The site had been derelict for 10 years and in the planning stage since 2018, so it’s positive that the site has now been developed and turned into an asset for the local community, creating jobs and bringing economic benefits to the town. We are sure the new Lidl and Wickes stores will be very popular.’’ Joe Travers, Associate Director at IMA Architects said: “This is our latest project with Clowes Developments, and we are pleased that the site has been delivered on time and will soon be a thriving retail location. Given the close proximity of residents, we were considerate to their needs throughout the construction phase and our designs for the site include additional landscaping, boundary treatments and acoustic mitigation measures to improve aesthetics and to ensure the scheme does not adversely impact people going forward.” Sarah Taitt, Property Director at Wickes said: “We are looking forward to opening our doors in Long Eaton in the coming months. We have been involved in the creation of the site from inception to completion which has meant that we could develop a location that perfectly suited our needs, and we are delighted with our new store at Stadium Retail Park.’’ Lidl GB’s Regional Head of Property, Dominic Bryan, commented: ‘’There’s been much anticipation for this new Lidl store and its great that we are now able to enter the next stages of development. We are extremely grateful for all the support we have received so far and look forward to bringing our high quality and best value produce to the local community.” Clowes Developments is one of the UK’s largest and strongest privately-owned property investment and development organisations. Headquartered in Ednaston, Derbyshire, the company are experts in land acquisition and promotion, property development and asset management, with 18,000 consented residential plots and 3,000 acres of development pipeline across the UK. IMA is an award-winning firm of architects based in Blaby, Leicestershire. The firm has completed more than 200 projects nationally and is actively working on 75 large-scale projects across the UK, Ireland and further afield. IMA works across all sectors and with a range of FTSE 100 companies – such as Marks & Spencer – as well as other global brands. The company is a proud Community Partner of Leicester City Football Club and a sponsorship partner of both Leicester Tigers RFC and Leicestershire County Cricket Club. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
