British Gypsum, part of Saint-Gobain Interior Solutions, has launched a groundbreaking digital construction tool that enhances the use of its Building Information Modelling (BIM) objects. The first-of-its-kind, cutting-edge technology makes it easier to maintain the golden thread of information and acts as a reliable single source of truth. BIMlocker is
SLR CONSULTING has appointed experienced transport advisor Iain Lamb to its Edinburgh-based team as the consultancy launches a new service offering for transport planning in Scotland. Lamb brings almost 30 years of experience to the construction consultancy business and will be responsible for providing comprehensive transport advice to SLR’s portfolio
New research has revealed that half of construction workers (51%) would not know what to do in the event of a fire at work. The study1, commissioned by Phoenix Health & Safety, surveyed 1,500 participants UK-wide to uncover how well Brits understand fire hazards in the workplace. Each year there
Selecting furniture and other poolside features necessitates that you consider functionality, aesthetics, style, comfort, and longevity. The choice of chairs, the tables, the arrangement, and the little decorations can turn your pool area from just a swimming spot into your personal chill zone. The outdoor furniture and features you choose
McLaren Construction Midlands and North has delivered phase one of Konect 62 – a speculative industrial and logistics development located in Knottingley, West Yorkshire. Comprising three sustainable units across the 60-acre first phase which are now available to let, the contractor worked together with C4 architects to complete the first
This year’s edition of the Workspace Design Show (27 – 28 February 2024, Business Design Centre, London), presents an impressive array of features. These bring together some of the industry’s leading designers, architects and built environment partners and range from an immersive forest stage to an interactive lighting installation. Altogether,
L75 and L85 updated with features from the Top-of-the-Range… In 2021, Bobcat launched the company’s first compact wheel loader (CWL), the L85. In 2022, the company added the L75 value model and in 2023, Bobcat launched its top-of-the-range premium model, the L95. As part of Bobcat’s continuous improvement programme based
The construction industry accounted for 12% of administrations in 2023 – the second highest sector in the UK – according to analysis by full-service law firm Shakespeare Martineau. A total of 1,641 businesses, 200 of which came from the construction industry, filed for administration last year – marking a 22%
Balfour Beatty today announces that it has been appointed by Hub South East to deliver two new primary schools, valued at £43 million, in East Lothian, Scotland. Balfour Beatty will be responsible for the design and construction of the two new primary schools, located in Craighall and Blindwells, which will
In the realm of design, one cannot underestimate the significance of artwork. It possesses the ability to infuse life and character into any space, elevating it from ordinary to extraordinary. While there is an abundance of choices when it comes to selecting art for your walls, custom wall art stands
British Gypsum, part of Saint-Gobain Interior Solutions, has launched a groundbreaking digital construction tool that enhances the use of its Building Information Modelling (BIM) objects. The first-of-its-kind, cutting-edge technology makes it easier to maintain the golden thread of information and acts as a reliable single source of truth. BIMlocker is a digital solution that provides an additional layer of security and support within British Gypsum systems. BIMlocker is a free plugin security wrapper that enables users to increase accuracy and accountability across projects. It seamlessly integrates with Revit software, offering enhanced data validation capabilities to mitigate potential risks of specification data corruption, without compromising the design process. Architects, specifiers, and quality controllers will benefit from BIMlocker’s design preservation features. It safeguards the quality, integrity, and accuracy of system performance data, and provides peace of mind that British Gypsum product data remains faithful to the original system test substantiation throughout the design process. Paul French, Head of Digital Construction from British Gypsum said, “Demonstrating compliance, accountability, and integrity has never been more important within our industry. [WL1] Our new BIMlocker software provides reassurance as an invisible layer of security that acts as a valuable aid to construction supply chains in the Building Safety Act era. It eliminates any ambiguity and ensures complete transparency. “Anyone choosing BIMlocker can have complete confidence that they are managing risk in the design process. The supply chain demands accurate and reliable product data, and BIMlocker is the ultimate solution. making it effortless for everyone to uphold the highest standards and to make the right decisions.” British Gypsum is part of Saint-Gobain Interior Solutions and is committed to making a positive change in building design and design for the well-being of its end users. Constant research and development ensure that its solutions meet the current and future performance needs of all buildings, from simple to complex. It is committed to achieving net zero carbon by 2050, with checkpoint targets set by Saint-Gobain for 2030. To download BIMlocker, please visit www.british-gypsum.com/bimlocker Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
SLR CONSULTING has appointed experienced transport advisor Iain Lamb to its Edinburgh-based team as the consultancy launches a new service offering for transport planning in Scotland. Lamb brings almost 30 years of experience to the construction consultancy business and will be responsible for providing comprehensive transport advice to SLR’s portfolio of development clients in Scotland, and elsewhere across the United Kingdom. “Sustainability and decarbonisation are top of the agenda when it comes to transport planning, combined with people’s changing travel patterns following the pandemic. I’m excited to guide our developer partners through their projects with SLR’s sustainability ethos at the forefront,” Lamb said. Lamb and the wider Edinburgh-based SLR Consulting team will provide integrated transport and master planning advice along with OPEN colleagues as part of a new service offering. “There’s a great agility within SLR and a significant number of projects in the transport and infrastructure market that we’re involved with, so it’s a very exciting time to join the company and contribute to its broader growth strategy,” Lamb added. His previous work in transport planning consultancy includes roles with Mott MacDonald and Steer Davies Gleave. Lamb joins SLR following seven years with Edinburgh-based Transport Planning consultants. With Lamb’s appointment, SLR Consulting equips itself with a broad experience of transport planning and enhances its ability to provide tailored transport planning advice in its role as trusted advisor to a wide range of clients. SLR Consulting is a global leader in sustainability solutions. Initially starting out as a UK business 25 years ago, it now operates worldwide with more than 3,000 people delivering client solutions across six regions. For more information about SLR, visit www.slrconsulting.com. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
New research has revealed that half of construction workers (51%) would not know what to do in the event of a fire at work. The study1, commissioned by Phoenix Health & Safety, surveyed 1,500 participants UK-wide to uncover how well Brits understand fire hazards in the workplace. Each year there are around 22,000 workplace fires around the UK2, highlighting the importance of having adequate fire safety knowledge. Phoenix Health & Safety has gathered insightful data to understand if Brits would know what actions to take in the event of a fire, and how businesses should take action to reduce the risk of fire-related workplace incidents. Overall, the study found that around half of construction workers (51%) would not know what to do in the event of a fire at work. Commenting on this finding, Nick Higginson, CEO of Phoenix Health & Safety, shares; “For fire safety to be most effective in a workplace, it’s key that individuals at every level of the organisation understand the procedures in full. “Without a well-rehearsed fire safety procedure, there can be delays to taking appropriate and immediate action, so it’s essential that businesses ensure their staff are fully aware of every aspect of the process.” The study also found that two-thirds (66%) of construction workers would not be able to locate their fire safety assembly point, and only around 6% have had a fire safety drill in their workplace in the past year. As well as this, barely over a quarter would be able to state who the fire officers in their workplace are. Technical Director of the IFE, Paul Trew, commented: “Fire extinguisher use is a small yet vital component of overall fire safety training, especially within the remote nature of construction environments. CPD programmes designed for the transitional work settings can provide useful insights and hands-on training on fire extinguisher usage, alongside fire prevention, evacuation, fire alarm use. Nick says: “According to government fire safety regulations, all workplaces should have a fire drill at least once a year and not doing so can result in a fine for the business3. Fire drills are important as they allow persons with fire safety responsibility to evaluate the effectiveness of the evacuation plan that is in place and make any necessary changes. To see that such a small percentage can recall a fire drill occurring in their workplace in the last year is a cause for concern. “Not knowing the location of the fire assembly point is just one example of why having a clear and well-rehearsed procedure is so important. All new staff should be made aware of the location of the assembly point and any fire exits, and should be reminded periodically through training to refresh their memory of fire safety protocol.” Only around a fifth of construction workers (20%) stated that they would know which fire extinguisher they could use to put out fires on different types of materials. To test fire extinguisher knowledge, respondents were given two scenarios to test their understanding of fire extinguisher types and their differences. In the first scenario, respondents were asked to identify which fire extinguisher was not safe to use to put out a fire caused by combustible materials such as paper and wood. A large majority of respondents answered incorrectly, with over four in five (82%) unable to identify that the black CO2 extinguisher is not safe to use. For the second scenario, respondents were tested on which fire extinguisher would be safe to use to put out a fire caused by an electrical fault. Once again, most respondents answered this incorrectly, with over three-quarters (78%) of respondents failing to identify that ‘black, blue or green’ extinguishers should be used. Nick says: “Understanding which fire extinguisher to use in the event of a fire could be the difference between the fire being dealt with quickly and safely, or a full-scale emergency. “In most workplaces, the fire extinguishers available should have signage that shows the extinguisher type and what sort of fire it can be used on. Whilst you may want to react quickly, taking a few seconds longer to identify the correct fire extinguisher could potentially be life-saving.” Nick continues: “It is the responsibility of organisations and their appointed persons with fire safety responsibility to ensure that all fire safety regulations are adhered to and a culture of following the rules is ingrained in the workplace, but it is also the responsibility of employees themselves to ensure the regulations are followed. Managers and supervisors who want to attain the necessary knowledge and skills to manage fire hazards can take a relevant fire safety course to get accredited, such as the NEBOSH Certificate in Fire Safety. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Selecting furniture and other poolside features necessitates that you consider functionality, aesthetics, style, comfort, and longevity. The choice of chairs, the tables, the arrangement, and the little decorations can turn your pool area from just a swimming spot into your personal chill zone. The outdoor furniture and features you choose will fortify the poolside ambiance – whether you’re soaking up the sunshine, hosting an evening party, or seeking a tranquil corner for reflection. So how do you start? Let this guide walk you through key elements that turn a basic pool area into a magnificent alfresco sanctuary. Nothing beats kicking back by the pool with the sun shining down, right? But sometimes, you need a little shade to cool off. Those nifty pool umbrellas are lifesavers, especially if you’re chilling in sunbaked spots like Brisbane. They’re like your own sun blockers and add a nice touch to your pool’s look. When you’re out shopping for pool umbrellas in Brisbane, there are certain considerations. First, think about size. It should be big enough to hide from the sun but not so huge that it takes over. Next, go for materials that can handle a bit of beating in the weather. And style? Pick something that makes your poolside look even cooler. And it’s not all about umbrellas. You could go for a fancy pergola or some canopies or even plant a few trees around for a natural vibe. Each adds its own twist, from a classy pergola setup to the relaxed, leafy feel of a mini-tree haven. The best part of your pool area? Where you lounge. That’s where you’ll be chilling, soaking up some sun, or maybe just taking a quick nap. You want something comfy but tough enough to handle the outdoors, and it’s got to scream ‘you.’ Check out loungers, daybeds, hanging chairs, and even sectional sofas. Focus on materials that last, and don’t forget cushions and covers—they’re not just comfy; they’re a chance to show off your style. And don’t simply plop them down anywhere. Set up a cozy corner, a sunbathing spot, or a secret hideaway to make it totally yours. Why stick to indoor meals when you’ve got this sweet poolside spot? Whether it’s a casual BBQ or a fancy outdoor dinner, the right table and chairs can make every meal feel like a special event. Choose a set that fits your space and can handle your crew. You need something sturdy, such as teak, metal, or hey, how about synthetic rattan? In an exclusive survey with 627 respondents, 40.67% (that’s 255 people) said that all-weather or resin wicker, which is just a fancy name for synthetic rattan, is their go-to for outdoor furniture. Rattan is not just tough; it also lasts way longer than the stuff made from vinyl or plastic. Plus, these materials come in a bunch of styles. Whether you’re all about keeping it casual or you want to dial up the chic factor, there’s something for everyone. And why not add an outdoor rug for cozy feels or string lights for that magical evening vibe? If you’re into cooking, consider an outdoor kitchen or a grill. Good lighting can turn your poolside into a whole other world when the sun goes down. It’s about seeing where you’re going and setting the mood. Mix up different types of lights. Underwater lights give your pool that starry-night look, path lights keep things safe, and accent lights? They highlight the best parts of your pool. And string lights or lanterns—perfect for a touch of fairy-tale magic. Consider LED lights; they last forever and don’t consume much power. With smart lighting, you can change up the vibe right from your phone. Accessories can transform your poolside area from basic to breathtaking. Outdoor rugs, for instance, define spaces and add a touch of warmth and texture. Choose materials that are durable and easy to clean, ensuring they stand up to the outdoor elements. Planters and greenery also play a crucial role. They bring life and color to your pool area, creating a natural, serene environment. Consider low-maintenance plants that thrive in your climate, adding both beauty and a sense of privacy. Lastly, don’t overlook the power of outdoor art. Weather-resistant sculptures or wall art can infuse personality and interest into your poolside space, reflecting your unique style and taste. Okay, so you love your pool looking all stylish and inviting, but don’t forget about safety—because that’s super important. You know how pool areas can get slippery? That’s where non-slip surfaces come in. Pick materials that keep you on your feet, even when things get wet. They should feel nice to walk on because who likes rough surfaces under their toes? Now, onto pool fencing. You want a fence that does its job—keeping the gang safe—but also looks like it belongs there. So look for options that tick both boxes: safety and style. So if you’re in the area, pool fences Las Vegas is a must-have for peace of mind and style, keeping the pool secure without cramping the vibe. And don’t forget about pool covers. More than keeping leaves and bugs out, they’re a big deal for safety, especially if you’ve got kids or furry friends running around. Automated covers? Even better. They’re like having a safety guard that keeps your pool clean and a breeze to use. Conclusion Spicing up your poolside is about making it feel part of you. Each piece adds to your little slice of paradise, from choosing cool umbrellas to lighting up the night. So go on, get creative, and make your poolside the ultimate hangout spot for your outdoor events.
McLaren Construction Midlands and North has delivered phase one of Konect 62 – a speculative industrial and logistics development located in Knottingley, West Yorkshire. Comprising three sustainable units across the 60-acre first phase which are now available to let, the contractor worked together with C4 architects to complete the first phase for joint venture partners, Henderson Park and Cole Waterhouse. With a capability of providing over 1,500 jobs, phase one units include 161,000, 151,000 and 61,000 sq. ft options alongside a 30-acre service plot, which was delivered with utilities and access to accommodate several Build-to-Suit options. The entire Konect 62 development, which will include multiple phases, will be adopting low carbon building design and technology to target a BREEAM ‘Excellent’ rating. McLaren Construction Midlands and North inducted 1,350 people during the delivery of the first phase, and a combined total of 138,200 work hours were required for the build. The Konect 62 site is located on the previous site of Kellingley Colliery, the last deep mine in the UK which opened in 1959 and closed in 2015. Gary Cramp, Managing Director of McLaren Construction Midlands and North, said: “We’re pleased to have delivered phase one of this landmark industrial and logistics hub, for joint venture partners Henderson Park and Cole Waterhouse, of which we’ve received excellent feedback. “Our dedicated team and subcontractors worked exceptionally hard to ensure the quality, sustainability and timeliness of the phase, which was completed in 12 months, using predominantly local labour from the surrounding community. The scheme will provide essential jobs and opportunities for the sector in a prime location.” David Nuttall, Managing Director of Industrial & Logistics at Cole Waterhouse, said: “McLaren has delivered an excellent first phase at Konect 62, exactly 12 months from signing the build contract. The three units and 30-acre plot set the tone for the remainder of the site and firmly establish Konect 62 as a genuine business location. A year ago, the site was featureless, and all traces of the former mine had been cleared. The change today is dramatic, and it is now a first-rate logistics park offering a variety of existing units and Build-to-Suit opportunities.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
This year’s edition of the Workspace Design Show (27 – 28 February 2024, Business Design Centre, London), presents an impressive array of features. These bring together some of the industry’s leading designers, architects and built environment partners and range from an immersive forest stage to an interactive lighting installation. Altogether, 2024’s features represent an incredible spectacle for attendees of the Show, which has become a must-visit event for office interiors professionals since its inception in 2021. Design Talks Lounge by Gensler Curated by Gensler, the design concept for the Design Talks Loungeat the Workspace Design Show 2024 delves into the overarching theme, ‘Bloom – Exploring the Thriving Ecosystem of Work Life’. This engaging experience aims to shed light on and draw inspiration from nature, encouraging a positive perspective on the evolving worlds of work and life. Established and independent furniture consultants, Hunters, have partnered with sustainably-focussed firms to help bring this feature to life. Office plant suppliers Exubia plays a central role with eye-capturing biophilic design, seamlessly merging live planting with innovative moss elements. This is complemented by a 66-metre custom printed fabric backdrop provided by Kvadrat, featuring a forest design and crafted by the incredibly skilled seamstresses at Waverley. The flooring, supplied by Material Hangout and Mogu, known for its bio-based solutions, reinforces the Design Talks Lounge’s environmental ethos, with the furniture carefully selected from Andreu World, a firm renowned for its commitment to sustainability, with products made from biodegradable and compostable properties. To extend the life cycle and impact of the design of the feature, post-event will see the redistribution of the plants and furniture featured, while the fabric finds a second life in charity projects, ensuring a sustainable and waste-free approach. Entrance by tp bennett Architectural, design and planning practice tp bennett is responsible for the design of the feature at the entrance to Workspace Design Show 2024. A series of elegant columns is arranged in a conceptual maze, serving as a symbolic representation of the intricate ecosystem of work life. Each column embodies the essence of ‘Bloom’ – another nod to the event’s theme. They stand tall and varied, representing the diversity of experiences and challenges often experienced in life and at the same time, the structures symbolize the growth, development and resilience of trees in a garden. As you navigate through the varied paths, you encounter different sculptural pieces created by Aectual, each one illustrating a delicate bloom, composed of recycled sustainable materials and textured 3D printed surfaces with accompanying organic biophilia provided by Vantage Spaces and Planteria, both experts in biophilic design & office planting. Vantage Spaces are using preserved foliage, which is harvested sustainably using natural dyes to preserve the stems and ensure they are VOC free, 100% natural & biodegradable. Overall, this conceptual maze invites contemplation on the organic nature of career progression, encouraging individuals to appreciate the beauty and resilience inherent in their professional journey. The feature is finished with a captivating modular, linear lighting system, subtly integrated by iGuzzini with contemporary textiles from Kvadrat and specialist plant lighting from Soltech. Insights Lounge by BDP Both the Occupiers Forum and the Sustainability Works sessions will be held in the Insights Lounge, designed exclusively by Lisa Pasi, graduate interior designer with international architects practice BDP. Also addressing the theme of, ‘Bloom’, Pasi’s concept will focus on the symbiotic relationship between man and nature. Hunters once again play a key role in terms of sourcing sustainable partners. Pasi’s vision promotes the purpose and validity of using natural materials within the workplace environment. To this end, wood and stone are not only aesthetically pleasing and foster a sense of warmth but also positively influence mood and well-being. Says Lisa Pasi, “Despite being constantly reminded of our connection to nature through our senses, this association tends to diminish when we find ourselves indoors, surrounded by artificial light and synthetic materials. Therefore, by adhering to biophilic design principles, the inclusion of natural materials will establish a connection to nature, bolstering concentration, creativity, and job satisfaction.” The sustainable credentials of flooring firms Mogu, Material Hangout and Ege carpets also underpin the concept. Overall, visitors to the Insights Lounge can enjoy a tactile experience and encounter the customisable options and unique qualities of natural materials, which are sure to enrich the overall comfort and engagement of individuals in the workplace. Living Workplace lighting installation Jason Bruges Studio presents two interactive lighting prototypes on the theme of ‘Living Workplace’. Each prototype is a 1:1 section of an existing, full-scale permanent artwork. The first prototype, called Energy Dynamics, originally developed for the Ukrainian energy company DTEK, uses technology for storytelling. The second prototype entitled The Experience Tunnel, was created for trading firm XTX Markets and introduces interaction to foster human connection and collaboration. Recharge Lounge M Moser Associates has crafted a captivating oasis featuring the exquisite Pebble Rubble modular seating range from Italian furniture manufacturer Moroso that transports us to a serene forestscape. Amidst the lively atmosphere of the Workspace Design Show, visitors will have the opportunity to be immersed in nature-inspired surroundings, where tranquillity and rejuvenation seamlessly converge. As the name suggests, the Recharge Lounge offers an opportunity to reset, refuel, recharge with Electrosonic also partnering to provide an experience where architecture, storytelling and technology connect in this enchanting retreat. Collectively, these features will form a key part of Workspace Design Show 2024 and promote meaningful discussions around the future of workplace, particularly in terms of best practice in sustainability. Register now to attend Workspace Design Show. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
L75 and L85 updated with features from the Top-of-the-Range… In 2021, Bobcat launched the company’s first compact wheel loader (CWL), the L85. In 2022, the company added the L75 value model and in 2023, Bobcat launched its top-of-the-range premium model, the L95. As part of Bobcat’s continuous improvement programme based on customer feedback, the company has announced annual updates for the L75 and L85 for model year 2024, allowing owners of the latest versions of these machines to benefit from some of the advanced features that were introduced last year on the L95. Award-Winning Wheel Loaders The Bobcat compact wheel loader range continues to win awards. The L85 was announced as a Product discipline winner in the 2021 edition of the world-renowned iF Design Awards. In September last year, the L75 and L85 won in the Product Design category in the international BIG SEE awards promoting unique and original creative achievements. With the award-winning designs of all three models, Bobcat has ensured that they share the same high level of standard features, providing high operator comfort and ease-of-operation, including: New features on the L75 and L85 (2024 model year) Power Bob-Tach (NEW) – factory option for L85 This provides a high-performing Bobcat attachment connection for applications in which maximum capacity for load and carry by bucket and pallet fork is not as important as connectivity to multiple Bob-Tach compliant attachments shared on the same job site with Bobcat skid-steer and compact track loaders. Heated Air Suspension Cloth Seat (NEW) – factory option The cab seat now offers a higher back rest with a head rest, together with air suspension set-up, lockable floating and left-hand adjustable arm rest, providing a new level of operator comfort on the L75 and L85. The cloth surface of the seat with heating added improves the operator’s comfort all year round − in both cold and hot weather. The seat also includes a sensor to indicate operator presence and to enhance safety (by inactivating auxiliary flow). Advanced Attachment Control (Improved) – standard configuration in L85 / factory option in L75 Bobcat has improved the advanced attachment system by adding new features that make the operator’s life easier. The new flex-drive feature allows the operator to change the engine’s RPM by manual throttle, independently from the foot throttle, at any time during operation. With this change, Bobcat has also provided auto-idle functionality when the machine is not in use for four seconds to reduce fuel consumption. Automatic Ride Control (Improved) – factory option To further enhance driving comfort at higher speed as well as with higher loads, Bobcat has improved this feature to meet customer expectations based on their feedback. The automatically activated loader boom suspension improves the operator’s comfort and helps protect the transported material from spillage when driving with a bucket or pallet forks. There is also more stability while moving up and down with a load/weight. Display logic has also been updated to indicate ride control activation-inactivation status. High Flow (Improved) – factory option This industry-unique feature adapted from other Bobcat loaders brings a 100 l/min flow to run high-flow attachments, such as snow blowers and planers. To further improve high flow attachment performance, Bobcat has increased the pressure from 200 to 225 bar. With this change, Bobcat has also reduced by 50% the time for automatic derate, set to protect hydraulic components when the machine is cold. Joystick Control (Improved) – standard configuration Based on customer feedback, Bobcat has improved the forward-reverse response time, together with improved lift and tilt multi-functionality to enhance productivity and operating experience. Machines already in the field can be updated simply by downloading new software – this is another Bobcat competitive advantage. Left-hand Arm Rest Upgrade for Suspension Seat (NEW) – Aftermarket orderable item For greater seating comfort and left hand support. To update the current suspension seat in the field, this feature is offered via the Aftermarket services from Bobcat. For more information about Bobcat and Bobcat products, visit the website www.bobcat.com Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The construction industry accounted for 12% of administrations in 2023 – the second highest sector in the UK – according to analysis by full-service law firm Shakespeare Martineau. A total of 1,641 businesses, 200 of which came from the construction industry, filed for administration last year – marking a 22% increase compared to 2022 and 91% rise in comparison to 2021. Retail, construction, hospitality, manufacturing, and real estate were the worst-hit sectors, collectively accounting for 59% of the administrations. Regionally, Greater London led the way with 22% of the filings, followed by the North West (14%) and South East (12%), data from The Gazette Official Public Record has revealed. While January (76) was the quietest month, administration numbers leapt to 177 in October – the most recorded for 43 months (185 in March 2020). With administrations nearing pre-Covid levels (1,794), an insolvency and restructuring expert has warned that sustained difficult trading periods combined with rising geopolitical tensions means we could see more businesses failing throughout 2024. Andy Taylor, partner and head of restructuring at Shakespeare Martineau, said: “The significant uptick in the number of companies filing for administration in 2023 underscores the challenges faced by businesses amid changing consumer habits, financial pressures, and geopolitical uncertainties. “In the labyrinth of economic complexities, the retail sector in particular is bearing the brunt, noted by the collapse of major player Wilko. There has also been a reduction in housebuilding, which has a knock-on effect in the construction and real estate sectors. “The cost of money, marked by high interest rates throughout 2023, exacerbates financial strains on businesses with models that thrived in a sub-2% interest rate environment. Organisations can only bear that pressure for so long before its sustained impact starts to wash through and they begin running out of cash. “A shift in consumer buying habits, exemplified by a challenging January for the hospitality sector, adds to the narrative of subdued spending. Moreover, HMRC continues to be more active, with threatened enforcement pushing businesses towards considering their options, and many opting for administration as an alternative to being wound up on a compulsory basis. “The global stage, marked by geopolitical tensions in Russia-Ukraine and Israel-Gaza, contributes to economic uncertainty and suppressed growth. Businesses reliant on imports face increased outlays, as shipping companies opt to avoid the dangers of the Suez Canal and seek to pass on the extra costs of transport to customers. “Many predict the rate of inflation to continue its downward trajectory in 2024, perhaps even approaching Bank of England’s target of 2%. If that trend continues one might anticipate something like three interest rate cuts in 2024, which will hopefully stimulate growth. However, the economic landscape remains unpredictable, and our advice remains consistent – seeking professional advice early can open up more options for struggling businesses. “It is crucial not to ignore the signs and bury your head in the sand and instead, take a proactive approach to address underlying issues. By doing so, businesses can better navigate the tough trading conditions and increase their chances of survival.” Businesses filing for administration per year By sector 2023 2022 By region 2023 2022 Administrative 26 24 British Isles 12 3 Agriculture 7 10 East Midlands 130 74 Arts and entertainment 68 21 East of England 118 94 Automotive/transportation 87 72 Greater London 364 265 Construction 200 208 North East 61 50 Education 16 4 North West 231 212 Engineering 31 35 Northern Ireland 9 18 Financial 75 79 Scotland 63 59 Health and social 74 66 South East 205 213 Hospitality 190 140 South West 119 68 Information and communication 87 55 Wales 31 48 Manufacturing 186 174 West Midlands 139 101 Mining and quarrying 7 10 Yorkshire & The Humber 159 135 Others 7 10 Professional services 64 90 Public admin and defence 16 7 Real estate 155 95 Retail 239 138 Utilities 73 61 Total 1,641 1,340 Total 1,641 1,340 Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Balfour Beatty today announces that it has been appointed by Hub South East to deliver two new primary schools, valued at £43 million, in East Lothian, Scotland. Balfour Beatty will be responsible for the design and construction of the two new primary schools, located in Craighall and Blindwells, which will house state-of-the-art, modern teaching facilities and learning spaces for over 840 students. The primary schools are required to meet demand from ongoing and planned house building in the local area, and on completion, will support East Lothian Council’s vision to develop a modern, safe, sustainable learning estate that enhances and supports communities whilst improving the lives of families. The primary schools will be constructed using Passivhaus principles – a quality assurance process for the design and construction of low energy buildings – and will utilise high-performance windows and doors as well as mechanical ventilation with heat recovery to reduce carbon emissions, improve indoor air quality and reduce energy demand and heating bills. In addition, as part of its commitment to leaving a lasting, positive legacy in the communities in which it operates, Balfour Beatty has committed to provide at least 20 employment opportunities for local people, as well as deliver a number of employability workshops, including drone and virtual reality sessions, at nearby schools and colleges. Hector MacAulay MBE, Managing Director of Balfour Beatty’s regional construction business in Scotland, said: “This latest contract award is testament to our expertise and experience in delivering high-quality, sustainable educational facilities in Scotland and our proven track record of giving back to local communities. “We look forward to working closely and collaboratively alongside Hub South East and East Lothian Council, to successfully deliver these new schools which will provide an exciting and inspirational learning environment for hundreds of children.” Construction is due to commence next month with completion expected in 2025. At construction peak, Balfour Beatty will employ 200 people with 5% of its workforce made up of apprentices, graduates and trainees to support its commitment to The 5% Club. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
In the realm of design, one cannot underestimate the significance of artwork. It possesses the ability to infuse life and character into any space, elevating it from ordinary to extraordinary. While there is an abundance of choices when it comes to selecting art for your walls, custom wall art stands out as a design option that leaves an impression. In this post, we will delve into the impact of wall art on interiors, exploring its advantages and why numerous designers and homeowners are gravitating towards specially tailored artwork. Uniqueness Tailored to You One of the benefits of print on demand wall art lies in its ability to provide personalization. When you opt for a piece specifically created for your space, you are curating an atmosphere that reflects your taste and style. By collaborating with an artist or designer to craft artwork, you have control over aspects such as color palettes, themes, and even specific elements you desire to incorporate. Moreover, personalized artwork not only serves as an expression of your personality but also offers a sense of exclusivity. Custom wall art has become increasingly popular in both homes and commercial spaces. While generic prints are common, opting for custom pieces allows you to showcase your vision and stand out from the crowd. Enhancing the Aesthetics The impact of custom artwork on aesthetics is undeniable. Instead of settling for mass-produced pieces, tailored artwork can elevate the appeal of any interior. Whether it’s adding colors to bring energy or creating an atmosphere with muted tones, customized art can perfectly complement existing decor or become the focal point that ties everything together. Furthermore, artists who create bespoke artwork consider factors like scale and composition to ensure their work seamlessly fits within a given space. This results in an integration between the art and its surroundings, effectively enhancing aesthetics. Creating Conversation Starters One of the advantages of having custom artwork on your walls is that it creates conversation starters. Intriguing compositions, thought-provoking messages, or creative use of materials can engage viewers. Just picture guests walking into your home or clients entering your office being greeted by bespoke artwork—it immediately sparks their curiosity and opens up opportunities for meaningful dialogue. Moreover, when you have the ability to share the story behind the creation of artwork you can bring an added layer of depth and intrigue to your living space. Supporting Local Artists Choosing custom wall art is not about personalization and aesthetics but about supporting local artists. By collaborating with artists in your community or independent creatives, you contribute to their growth and sustainability as craftsmen. Custom commissions not only provide artists with an avenue for expression but also offer them valuable exposure. This mutual support fosters relationships between designers, homeowners, and artists—a fusion of creativity within the local community. Maximizing Versatility: Custom Wall Art in Design Styles Custom wall art possesses the versatility to adapt flawlessly to diverse design styles. Whether your space embodies minimalism, classic elegance, or eclectic uniqueness, tailor-made artwork can seamlessly integrate into any aesthetic. In spaces characterized by lines and a focus on simplicity, custom wall art can serve as a striking focal point. The utilization of geometric designs in colors adds visual interest and injects personality into minimalist interiors. For those who appreciate timeless sophistication, custom wall art offers the opportunity to create a sense of elegance. When it comes to design, incorporating wall art that reflects motifs and techniques can add a touch of elegance. By using details and rich textures, it complements furniture and fabrics, creating captivating spaces that leave a lasting impression. In conclusion, wall art holds importance in design. Customized wall art takes this concept to another level by offering personalization options. It enhances aesthetics, sparks conversations, and supports artists. These unique benefits make custom artwork a worthwhile investment for anyone seeking to add character and exclusivity to their homes or commercial spaces. So why settle for the ordinary when you can embrace the impact of customized wall art in your interiors today?