Cristina Diaconu
Webinar Shines Light on Future Home Standards

Webinar Shines Light on Future Home Standards

A webinar, hosted by Keystone Lintels, has provided value insights in to how the industry can help meet the UK’s ambitious 2050 net zero targets while meeting the housing target of 300,000 homes a year. The Keystone Lintels ‘Future Homes Standard’ webinar explored the Future Homes Standard and how the

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IG Lintels Plays Important Role in Clerkenwell Development

IG Lintels Plays Part in Clerkenwell Development

Bespoke brick slip feature arch lintels from IG Lintels form a distinctive element of a sympathetic and prestigious addition to an Edwardian council estate in the London Borough of Camden. Built between 1901 and 1903, the Grade II-listed Bourne Estate is on the fringes of the Hatton Garden Conservation Area

Read More »
Construction Commences at Preston Road Regeneration Site

Construction Commences at Preston Road Regeneration Site

Work is officially underway to bring over 500 new homes to a key Preston Road regeneration site in Hull. Strata Homes have begun the first phase of this new and exciting housing development located on Preston Road in Hull, which aims to transform the area into a prosperous location for

Read More »
The Use of Daylight in Educational Facilities

The Use of Daylight in Educational Facilities

At a time when the health and wellbeing of students has never been more important, the use of daylight in educational facilities can be a hugely beneficial way to maximise student performance and productivity whilst at the same time helping to lower a building’s energy use. By introducing rooflights, including

Read More »
IG Masonry Support Delivers on Canada Water Development

IG Masonry Support Delivers on Canada Water Development

When it came to providing a range of bespoke brick slip products to achieve intricate brick features throughout the façade on the buildings in the first phase of the Water Yards masterplan at Canada Water, IG Masonry Support was well-poised to deliver the goods. Porters Edge, Canada Water is a

Read More »
The Most Expensive UK Properties Currently for Sale

The Most Expensive UK Properties Currently for Sale

From vineyards and tennis courts, to heated pools and huge cinema rooms, the UK’s most expensive properties benefit from perks that the majority of us could only dream of, but where exactly are the priciest properties on sale in the UK currently located? Using its new Lustworthy Listings explorer, an

Read More »
Musk Process Services Delivers Turnkey Project

Musk Process Services Delivers Turnkey Project

BASF Pharma (Callanish) Ltd is working with EJ Musk Process Services to deliver a seven-figure improvement at its Callanish plant on the Isle of Lewis. The investment includes the building of a new permanent tank farm and operational improvements to purification systems. The turnkey project includes design, manufacturing, installation and

Read More »
Gilbert-Ash Hands over University of Brighton Business School

Gilbert-Ash Hands over University of Brighton Business School

Leading construction and fit out company, Gilbert-Ash, has handed over another ground-breaking project which has been part-inspired by a murmuration of starlings over Brighton’s iconic pier at University of Brighton Business School. Construction comprised concrete piled foundations, an insitu fair faced concrete frame including soffit walls and columns, a polished

Read More »
Design Tips from Luxurious Development Designer

Design Tips from Luxurious Development Designer

The interior designer behind the luxury show homes at riverside residential development The Yacht Club, Nottingham, has shared her top design tips for summer 2021. Ghazala Mogul, interior designer at KMRE Group Ltd – the Leeds-based developer behind The Yacht Club and other residential projects around the country – has

Read More »
‘Apartment Development of the Year’ for Nottingham

‘Apartment Development of the Year’ for Nottingham

One of Nottingham’s premier Trent-side residential developments, The Waterside Apartments, has been named Apartment Development of the Year at the annual Insider Midlands Residential Property Awards. Held last night at The Eastside Rooms in Birmingham, the awards showcase the best residential projects and developers in the Midlands over the last

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Latest Issue
Issue 327 : Apr 2025

Cristina Diaconu

Webinar Shines Light on Future Home Standards

Webinar Shines Light on Future Home Standards

A webinar, hosted by Keystone Lintels, has provided value insights in to how the industry can help meet the UK’s ambitious 2050 net zero targets while meeting the housing target of 300,000 homes a year. The Keystone Lintels ‘Future Homes Standard’ webinar explored the Future Homes Standard and how the sector can ensure it builds homes for the future without leaving a legacy of retrofitting. The event was chaired by architectural expert Ruth Slavid with guest speakers, Gavin Dunn, Chief Executive of the Chartered Association of Building Engineers (CABE), Darren Evans, founder and chief facilitator of Darren Evans Ltd and Ben Cheetham, National Specification Manager at Keystone Lintels. Dr Gavin Dunn, a member of BRAC (Building Regulations Advisory Committee) and chair of the Future Homes Standard working group, provided invaluable insights in to the new standard. His presentation focussed on the positives of the Future Homes Standard, highlighting how the UK was progressing with its decarbonisation targets to meet net zero carbon emissions within the energy sector, pointing out that the electricity grid was well on track to meet its goals. His positive messaging came with caveats on new build homes struggling with challenges for over-heating during hot weather periods as climate change escalates seasonal temperatures and under-ventilation. The key headline message though was ‘No Gas’ by 2025 in new build homes. Darren Evans, the founder of a leading sustainability consultancy that specialises in SAP and SBEM calculations, thermal bridging and BREEAM, polled the audience with surprising results on a question relating to higher embodied carbon on a kilo to kilo basis with building materials, proving the obvious answer is not always obvious. Solar Photovoltaic Panels underperforming and producing a higher footprint, even against cement. Ben Cheetham discussed how the fabric first approach at the design stage helps house builders and specifiers comply with the latest regulation. He talked about addressing thermal bridging by using high performing materials that reduce heat loss, with up to 30% of heat loss occurring this way. Other key points discussed in the webinar included:  Does volume and quality affect and impact on a sustainable choice?  What impact will the Future Homes Standard have?  What are the challenges to creating buildings that achieve the desired outcomes for clients?  What is the key consideration to improve the fabric of the buildings (fabric first), without reliance of renewables and technologies?  The challenges of finding and choosing material solutions that will help us create thermally efficient homes? Meeting these challenges, will clearly present the building sector with obstacles and opportunities for innovation, that need to be acted upon quickly, if we are to achieve the Government’s planned net zero carbon target.

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IG Lintels Plays Important Role in Clerkenwell Development

IG Lintels Plays Part in Clerkenwell Development

Bespoke brick slip feature arch lintels from IG Lintels form a distinctive element of a sympathetic and prestigious addition to an Edwardian council estate in the London Borough of Camden. Built between 1901 and 1903, the Grade II-listed Bourne Estate is on the fringes of the Hatton Garden Conservation Area and is a jewel in the crown for its owner Camden Council. Internationally significant and originally built by the London County Council, it became a model for influential public housing built in Vienna after the First World War. When it came to its redevelopment and the creation of two new blocks consisting of seventy-five mixed tenure homes, Matthew Lloyd Architects in partnership with Higgins Construction, had the architectural challenge of designing and building new housing that responded to the original Edwardian buildings. Central to the design of the additions is the fine brick detailing which needed to replicate the materials and characteristics of the original architecture. A number of double height brick arches were also created and form a central throughway into new communal courtyards seen elsewhere on the estate. In keeping with the architect’s aesthetic requirements, IG Lintels technical team designed 215mm high flat gauge brick slip feature lintels accommodating a series of brick spans; 910mm, 1360mm, 1472mm and 1585mm. All bricks were cut and bonded offsite onto the load bearing lintels. A consignment of bricks was collected from site to guarantee both quality and reliability in matching the surrounding brickwork. The ceramic bricks were carefully cut in a mitre fashion to conceal the red clay finish underneath and ensure that the ceramic finish on the mitre did not splinter which minimalised brick wastage. All the bricks cut were bonded in a rowlock pattern using BBA approved construction adhesive in a controlled environment without disruption from the natural weather. The patented perforated design of a IG Brick Feature Lintel allows the adhesive to squeeze through the perforations and form a ‘mushroom’ on the inside, providing a mechanical lock between the steel lintel and the bricks. Each prefabricated single piece unit was delivered in line with the build schedule onsite. This reduced health and safety concerns by eliminating the requirement for skilled labour working from height for a prolonged period of time in a busy London area. The contrasting brick types used on the project add to the new design creating pleasing views that clearly define key routes and boundaries. IG’s lintel solutions have ensured the high quality additions to the innovative Bourne Estate will strengthen the character of the conservation area through careful design and close attention to the articulation of the facades. The richness of detail in the brickwork and the quality in construction will ensure the estate will endure for more generations to come.

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Construction Commences at Preston Road Regeneration Site

Construction Commences at Preston Road Regeneration Site

Work is officially underway to bring over 500 new homes to a key Preston Road regeneration site in Hull. Strata Homes have begun the first phase of this new and exciting housing development located on Preston Road in Hull, which aims to transform the area into a prosperous location for families to live within a strong community. The 500 new high quality home development is a collaboration between the Hull Citywide Developer Partnership (led by Strata and Keepmoat Homes) and Hull City Council and will provide a range of affordable and private sale properties. “The council has an ambitious and well established housing-led regeneration programme and thanks to our strong partnerships with developers such as Strata and Keepmoat we are transforming the housing market in Hull. Together we are building new, sustainable neighbourhoods, and given the partnership’s commitment to using local labour, we are bringing new training opportunities and jobs to the city too,” said Councillor Black, Hull City Council Portfolio Holder for Housing and Homelessness. Strata will be delivering 242 homes and are on the regeneration site currently, with Keepmoat delivering a further 172 homes as the second phase. The homes will comprise of two-, three- and four- bedroom properties which will be available across various purchasing options from open market sale, homes to rent and affordable housing. “Working alongside the Council and partners the commencement of works on site brings together many years of hard work which will see the area transformed providing a range of new mixed tenure homes. This is a really exciting next step in the redevelopment of the site which will see new homes, roads and open spaces delivered to strengthen the existing community,” added Mark Leaf, Land and Planning Director at Strata. As part of their commitment to the local community and the City of Hull, the Citywide Partnership has pledged to support local people and help generate opportunities in training and employment, work placements, apprenticeship opportunities and supporting the growth of local businesses and supply chains, to further boost the city’s economy, which will be delivered throughout the lifetime of the project. Work at the development is expected to take four years, with the first homes becoming available to purchase in 2022.

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The Use of Daylight in Educational Facilities

The Use of Daylight in Educational Facilities

At a time when the health and wellbeing of students has never been more important, the use of daylight in educational facilities can be a hugely beneficial way to maximise student performance and productivity whilst at the same time helping to lower a building’s energy use. By introducing rooflights, including domes, vaults, pitched skylights or panel glazing systems, it is possible to deliver resilient and future-proofed educational spaces that encourage learning, concentration and positive student behaviour. Despite the closure of schools and colleges and the disruption caused by the pandemic, children spend on average more than 7,800 hours at school throughout their education with a large amount of time in the classroom. Studies have shown that students felt at their best under rooflight or natural lighting, whilst teachers appreciate the good light transmission, good colour rendition and good behaviour demonstrated under the conditions created by rooflights. According to The Department for Education Building Design Bulletin 90, ‘The school designer should assume that daylight will be the prime means of lighting when it is available’. With daylight considered a fundamental design criterion, rooflights can help maximise the transmission of natural light to the interior of a school. Partnering with local authorities, architects and schools, Brett Martin has a deep understanding of the specific requirements of the education sector. Providing expert, impartial technical advice on rooflight specification, the manufacturer’s team has access to the widest choice of rooflight products available, in the full range of glazing materials. An intuitive and experienced technical team ensure compliance with Part L and help to achieve higher BREEAM ratings. In addition to new build construction, architects and designers refurbishing and upgrading older school buildings can reap the benefits of rooflights. Brett Martin has offered guidance and advice to specifiers wanting to transform courtyards into classrooms, provide canopies and covered walkways, replace existing rooflights and develop bespoke daylight solutions for halls and circulation areas, leisure facilities and classrooms.

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IG Masonry Support Delivers on Canada Water Development

IG Masonry Support Delivers on Canada Water Development

When it came to providing a range of bespoke brick slip products to achieve intricate brick features throughout the façade on the buildings in the first phase of the Water Yards masterplan at Canada Water, IG Masonry Support was well-poised to deliver the goods. Porters Edge, Canada Water is a mixed use, multi-phased dockside regeneration project in the London borough of Southwark, situated between London Bridge and Canary Wharf. The first phase of this ambitious masterplan included 234 apartments rising up 18 storeys, located in four residential cores surrounding a landscaped courtyard and a 100,000 sq. ft. Decathlon store with a basement car park. The intricate brick features and balconies with brick soffits required IG’s full catalogue of prefabricated components. IG collaborated with delivery architect Stockwool and main contractor Ardmore to design and manufacture bespoke brick slip systems that would achieve the architect’s vision. The Challenge Attractive brick details were a desirable aesthetic for this phase of the Water Yards masterplan. Each residential core of the development was unique. In total six different types of bricks were used throughout the development with a mix of three bricks specified by Stockwool for each elevation. Carefully considered brick combinations were produced to create beautiful brick soffits that are visible throughout the elevations, located above windows, openings and recesses as well as underneath the balconies. When it came to brickwork elements, the size and complexity of the brick soffits on the seventy balconies on the west and north-west elevations presented the contractor with the greatest challenge. IG’s technical team was tasked with designing bespoke brick slip balcony soffits to achieve this aesthetic feature. Additionally, Brick Slip Lintels and B.O.S.S. units were required to provide seamless brick soffits above the windows, openings and recess panels. The Solution Porters Edge was a standout programme for IG Masonry Support and required a great deal of innovation and adaptability. IG’s technical team designed and manufactured a bespoke solution to achieve the brick soffits on the balconies. This solution was the first that used an extended B.O.S.S system based on steel. IG also provided hangers, which were flexible enough for movement between the main structure of the balcony and its system. The brick slip soffit balcony system had to be signed off by both the NHBC and the contractor. To obtain approval IG had to provide many calculations on thermal expansion, to prove that the brick soffit panel would work with the cladding that surrounds the balcony. The challenge here was to illustrate that there would not be any cracking or loosening of the bricks as a result of the thermal and mechanical movement of the balcony. IG also had to undertake Finite Element Analysis (FEA), to demonstrate that the system was able to accommodate movement within the balcony during manufacturing, erection and usage. IG’s prefabricated brick slip balcony soffit solution enabled Ardmore to achieve the desired brick detail quickly and effectively. For health and safety reasons the soffits were designed to be installed to the balcony on the ground. Once assembled, the whole balcony was lifted into position and connected to the building. The complex brick detail achieved above the windows, openings and recesses throughout the development highlights the design versatility of IG’s offsite soffit solutions. Capable of accommodating any brick type or bond pattern, IG’s technical team created both Brick Slip Lintels and B.O.S.S. units for achieving the stretcher bond detail on a combination of 102.5 and 327.5 soffits. As with all of its projects IGMS went above and beyond, adapting its systems to the different sizes and mixture of bricks. Not only does this indicate the strength of its offsite solutions, it highlights the diligence and excellence of the IG team. As a further example of exceptional service, IG Masonry Support supplied drawings and method statements to help the brickwork contractor and engineers onsite. A landmark project in London’s emerging borough of Southwark, the presence of IG Masonry Support’s solutions will ensure the development’s sophisticated brickwork will look good for many years to come.

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The Most Expensive UK Properties Currently for Sale

The Most Expensive UK Properties Currently for Sale

From vineyards and tennis courts, to heated pools and huge cinema rooms, the UK’s most expensive properties benefit from perks that the majority of us could only dream of, but where exactly are the priciest properties on sale in the UK currently located? Using its new Lustworthy Listings explorer, an online tool that lets users input any postcode in order to discover the most expensive properties for sale in the area, the mortgage experts at money.co.uk have pulled together a list of the costliest abodes currently available to purchase. 1.London – 8-bed terraced townhouse: £77,500,000 Sitting on Belgrave Square, the stunningly decadent eight-bed terraced townhouse boasts scenic views from its balcony and roof terrace, and is currently the most expensive publicly listed home for sale on the UK market. In order to enjoy the outdoor surroundings, residents have the option of either accessing the exclusive Belgrave Square Gardens or using their own private garden to relax in. With on-street parking (gold dust in Central London), residents can even pull right up to the door of their property after a long day taking in the beauty of the UK capital. Nearby: Knightsbridge is a short stroll away, where residents can treat themselves to such high-end eating establishments as Zuma London and the Harrods Tea Room. The bustling Sloane Street is also a stone’s throw away, lined with luxury boutiques and exclusive shopping stores. Buckingham Palace is just a four-minute drive away if the lucky owners ever feel like leaving the luxury of their £77m home and visiting one worth a staggering £4.9 billion. Mortgage deposit: £7,750,000 Monthly repayments: £231,055 2.Leeds – 8-bed Grade II country house: £3,500,000 This recently renovated Grade II listed Georgian country house combines unique period features – which date back to 1750 – with modern technology and interiors. Nestled away privately on Scotland Lane, Horsforth, its long driveway leads up to the estate through the immaculate private grounds that are just under seven acres. Designed for entertaining and hosting, the house boasts a cinema room, wine cellar, gym, large car garage and an annexe/guest wing for visiting friends and family. But unless you’re invited in or can afford the hefty £3.5 million price tag, this is the closest you’ll get to seeing it, as it’s safely guarded by an electronic gate system and state of the art security cameras. Nearby: The town of Horsforth has a variety of bars and restaurants to explore and caters to all tastes, from independent Greek tavernas to Italian trattorias. Leeds City Centre is only five miles away, where you can visit Trinity Shopping Centre. The Yorkshire Dales are also close by for long walks out in the fresh air to get back to nature. For international travellers and jetsetters, there is also the benefit of Leeds Bradford Airport being located a two-minute drive away from the house. Mortgage deposit: £350,000 Monthly repayments: £10,434 3.Nottingham- 8-bed architect-designed house: £2,950,000 This unique, architect-designed house is another one of the most expensive properties in the UK. It lies on the highly sought after location of Melton Road, Edwalton, and combines privacy with the convenience of being close to West Bridgford. The four-floor property features a grand reception room, leisure facilities, eight bedrooms, including guest accommodation on the second floor with a large bedroom, en suite and an open plan living/dining/kitchen. The wrap-around balcony encasing the property measures over 1,200 sq ft in length, and makes the perfect setting for relaxing and taking in views of the sunset. Unsurprisingly, the home comes equipped with a variety of high tech perks. As well as a video entry gate system and CCTV to keep residents safer, there are also remote-activated blinds, an air handling/recovery system, and a Sonos Sound System to provide musical entertainment across every room. Nearby: The City Ground, home to the Nottingham Forest Football Club since 1898, is just 7.3 miles away. Also nearby is the world-famous cricketing landmark Trent Bridge, built in 1838 and the third oldest Test ground in the world. West Bridgford has plenty of quality restaurants to choose from, with delicious tapas at Escabeche and gastropub The Tailors Arms among the most popular. Nottingham City Centre and its wealth of shops, bars and restaurants is also located just 8.7 miles from the home. Mortgage deposit: £295,000 Monthly repayments: £8,795

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Musk Process Services Delivers Turnkey Project

Musk Process Services Delivers Turnkey Project

BASF Pharma (Callanish) Ltd is working with EJ Musk Process Services to deliver a seven-figure improvement at its Callanish plant on the Isle of Lewis. The investment includes the building of a new permanent tank farm and operational improvements to purification systems. The turnkey project includes design, manufacturing, installation and commissioning. Musk, part of the Edwin James Group, will manage the whole project. Fabrication will be managed at the Swadlincote plant and installation will be undertaken using Musk teams supported by local contractors. “As one of the area’s biggest private-sector employers, this investment underpins our commitment to the region. The new tank farm and other improvements will ensure that we can continue to deliver world-class pharmaceutical ingredients to our customers. Our relationship with Musk spans a number of years and we know from experience that they deliver a level of engineering and service that we can trust to get the job done,” said Angus Morrison, site manager, BASF Callanish. BASF Pharma (Callanish) Ltd is a global leader in manufacturing highly-concentrated omega-3 fatty acids, for pharmaceutical and nutritional applications. The company employs more than 80 people at its dedicated lipid development plant on the Isle of Lewis and is part of the Pharma Ingredients & Services of BASF’s Nutrition & Health division. “This turnkey project is a perfect example of the type of work we undertake delivering everything from project design to fabrication and installation and commissioning. We’ve built a good relationship with the team at Callanish and it’s great to work in partnership with them to deliver this key investment,” commented on the project Charlie Price, operations director at Musk Process Services. Edwin James Group is a national engineering, technical and process services group that operates throughout the UK. The group offers a complete range of services that are delivered by a highly-skilled workforce.

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Gilbert-Ash Hands over University of Brighton Business School

Gilbert-Ash Hands over University of Brighton Business School

Leading construction and fit out company, Gilbert-Ash, has handed over another ground-breaking project which has been part-inspired by a murmuration of starlings over Brighton’s iconic pier at University of Brighton Business School. Construction comprised concrete piled foundations, an insitu fair faced concrete frame including soffit walls and columns, a polished concrete living stair with Spanish steps and bespoke ceramic veil cladding. The building also incorporated exposed services and baffled ceilings, an extensive CAT B fit out with bespoke joinery, wall and ceiling panelling, as well as complex service installation including combined smoke extraction and natural ventilation. The new six-storey Business School at University of Brighton provides event space, creative breakout within a triple-storey atrium, workplace and teaching spaces, meeting rooms, offices and consultation rooms, a café, kitchenettes and plant space. Extensive public realm works are also included to provide an enhanced external experience. The works form the centrepiece of a major redevelopment project taking place across the University. One of the most striking features of the new Business School is the bespoke terracotta tiled ceramic veil façade with six different tile types and three different degrees of gloss finish. A first of its kind in façade design, it takes its inspiration from starling murmurations seen over Brighton pier on winter evenings. Gilbert-Ash Contracts Manager, Chris Fletcher, described the new Business School as one of the most impressive buildings he has ever worked on. “It really is an outstanding building. With large rooms and lots of open spaces it is an enhanced space going above and beyond being fit for purpose.” “This was a highly complex project, full of challenging details, finishes and build techniques, none of which were straightforward, but there was little in 2020 that went exactly to plan as the pandemic struck. Despite the many challenges, through working collaboratively with the Client team, Gilbert-Ash handed over another first-class project on budget and on time. We would highlight that without a very supportive and collaborative Client team the success of this project would have been much more challenging.” Chris also paid tribute to the Gilbert-Ash team who came together ‘as one’ to face down the challenges of the pandemic. “The teamwork was amazing, both from the people on the site, and those back at headquarters, who were working tirelessly to make sure we had the materials we needed as the global shortage took hold. I was proud to see how everyone at Gilbert-Ash and our Supply Chain Partners rolled their sleeves up with the goal of overcoming any issues to deliver a first-class project for our Client.” The new Business School will now help the University remain competitive on both the national and international stage. Gilbert-Ash attributes its continued success to its ‘As One’ approach and its unique working culture and family environment as an employee-owned company. It continues to complete a broad portfolio of successful construction projects across sectors including arts and culture, workplace, hotels and leisure, education, science and technology, retail, residential and student accommodation.

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Design Tips from Luxurious Development Designer

Design Tips from Luxurious Development Designer

The interior designer behind the luxury show homes at riverside residential development The Yacht Club, Nottingham, has shared her top design tips for summer 2021. Ghazala Mogul, interior designer at KMRE Group Ltd – the Leeds-based developer behind The Yacht Club and other residential projects around the country – has shared her expert insights into the trends homeowners should consider embracing this season. “This year seems to be one of change for so many of us, and that is something which is being reflected in the style of our homes, and how we are choosing to decorate and rework the space to suit new lifestyles. We are seeing a shift from the minimalistic, Scandinavian-inspired trends, with neutral tones, that have been popular for a number of years now – to the more colourful, expressive styles that incorporate much more variation, with nature and eco-friendly designs proving to be very sought-after,” said Ghazala. “Many of these new trends have been incorporated into the interior design at The Yacht Club – the use of natural, earthy colours with plenty of greens and blues echo the location’s stunning waterside views of the River Trent and the nature reserve beyond. I’ve compiled a list of top tips to consider this year when redecorating your home, from what to say goodbye to, to what to embrace – to make your home feel refreshed with an inspired new look.” Design tips from Ghazala: Home interior trends are we saying goodbye to The shift away from the use of crisp white and neutral tones in homes is gaining traction as homeowners opt for more colour. Pristine white kitchens in a minimalistic design are no longer the firm favourite among households, as the trend for more textures, colours and unusual statement accessories and tiling take centre stage. Following the pandemic, more people have made the move towards home working. As a result, individual spaces and home offices have become essential – open plan living is no longer king of interior design, as more and more homeowners require their own private spaces in order to manage their new post-pandemic routines. Emerging trends The trend for nature and incorporating natural elements into the home is growing in popularity this year, as we all pine to bring a burst of the outdoors indoors. Perhaps it is a consequence of spending more time inside over the last 12+ months, but nature is making its way into our homes through the use of colour – earthy tones like sage and olive greens, oceanic blues and subtle fleshy shades are taking over home décor Pinterest boards and glossy magazines alike. Eco-friendly design is also on the rise, as people gravitate towards textured accessories and handmade ornaments made from natural materials and it is one of Ghazala’s design tips to do the same. The trend for remote working has seen a huge increase in the need for home offices – and inspiration for an Insta-worthy workspace design is everywhere. Light, simple and spacious rooms filled with only the essentials – a comfortable desk and chair, high-spec tech, fast wifi and a few key pieces for decoration are the best way to create a space that’ll help to inspire productivity and clarity. A cluttered space does not help a cluttered mind! Colour schemes we can expect to see more of this season Another one of her design tips includes the use of warm, earthy colours, a trends that is going to continue and it is likely that designers and homeowners alike will become even more bold with their colour choices – expect to see lots of deep blue, emerald green, cosy greys and plenty of sage green in the coming months and into 2022. Trends to look out for next year The immaculate, sparkling white interiors of previous years will continue to fade as colour will dominate the décor trends next year. Homeowners are keen to express their personalities through interior design – with a mix of fresh, modern style, statement pieces, textures, patterns and of course, colour. The bolder the better! A favoured trick from interior designers is the use of texture – any well-designed space will have a number of different materials, from light wood to tiling to woollen throws and velvet cushions. The variety of texture adds an extra element to the space, giving it both a stylish and a homely feel. The same goes for patterns – using a mix and match approach, next year will see many more stripes, checks and polka dots in striking colours to provide added interest to rooms. Post-pandemic preferences In terms of changing lifestyle habits following lockdown restrictions – as well as sleek new home offices, many homes will also see a change in their layout. Open plan living is no longer top of the must-have priority list when it comes to the ideal home, as people seek more privacy and individual spaces within the home that they can make their own. From snugs to studies – we are looking for quieter, closed spaces for relaxation, work and entertainment. Given that many of us have spent a great deal more time in our homes over the last year than previously, the need for our own space is understandable and it is influencing our design choices as a result.

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‘Apartment Development of the Year’ for Nottingham

‘Apartment Development of the Year’ for Nottingham

One of Nottingham’s premier Trent-side residential developments, The Waterside Apartments, has been named Apartment Development of the Year at the annual Insider Midlands Residential Property Awards. Held last night at The Eastside Rooms in Birmingham, the awards showcase the best residential projects and developers in the Midlands over the last 12 months. The Waterside Apartments, accessed on Pavillion Road, are in an iconic location overlooking Trent Bridge, and feature 125 contemporary apartments with stunning views up and down the river and out to West Bridgford. Developed by local award-winning firm Monk Estates and designed by Nottingham-based Leonard Design Architects, the homes have been popular since coming to market with selling agent FHP Waterside Living, part of FHP Living. With 13 two-bed apartments remaining for sale, priced from £285,000, and six penthouses which start at £695,000, there is still time for buyers to have a home in what is now known as the best residential building in the Midlands. “Hearing The Waterside Apartments called out as the winner of the award last night was just brilliant and myself, the team and wider supporting partners – who have all worked so hard to deliver this incredible place to live – are all really pleased. Since the outset, the uptake and response from buyers and residents of The Waterside Apartments has been phenomenal, which is a testament to the detail and thought that has gone into the homes and the high-spec public spaces in and outside the property,” said Sam Monk, director of Monk Estates. The Waterside Apartments feature an onsite gym provided by Hitboxx for high intensity training and a private communal rooftop terrace above the Waterside Bar + Kitchen, complete with a range of seating and sunbathing areas. “We are so pleased that The Waterside Apartments has been recognised in this category – the building maximises the beautiful waterside views on one side, and the expansive vistas of West Bridgford and beyond on the other, thanks to its design. All areas of the building, from the apartments themselves to the corridors, capture spectacular views of the surroundings and allow natural light to flood in – something which will be hugely beneficial to the residents living there.” “It has created an impressive gateway site into West Bridgford as you travel over Trent Bridge and it’s wonderful to see the development celebrated as a stand-out scheme, not just in Nottingham but in the Midlands as a whole,” added John Morgan, director of Leonard Design Architects. The Waterside Apartment’s was the only non-Birmingham development shortlisted for the Apartment of the Year Development award and was up against stiff competition with six other worthy schemes.

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