Many people have the dream of constructing their own home from scratch. While building your own home is often more expensive up front, you may save money in time from not having to do repairs or renovations on items in a home that you simply bought. When taking on a major construction project such as a home build, however, there are a number of factors that need to be taken into account ranging from cost, time, and general do’s and don’ts. How Much Does Constructing a Home Cost? In 2022, the average price to construct a home was just shy of $300,000 which included the building, but no interior additions such as appliances or furniture. This price also varies based on location. For example, on the West Coast it may cost you around $131 per square foot to build a home, whereas it may cost you $155 per square foot in the Northeast. This means that to build a 2,000 square foot home, a person on the West Coast could expect to pay around $262,000 whereas someone in the Northeast should expect to pay around $310,000.  Generally speaking, a home construction project can be broken down on a cost basis into a number of categories which include: Specialized home builds may have more that go into them, but the above are some of the most common categories for spend when building a home.  How Long Will It Take to Build a Home? In a perfect world, building a home can take as little as three to six months if all zoning and sites classifications have been met. However, for more complex builds or when certain approvals are required, it can take as long as two years until you are able to complete the build and move into your home. Consult with a contractor regarding how long the construction project will take so that you have an accurate timeline for expectations.  5 Do’s of Home Building As you begin the process of your home building project and are considering services such as professional engineering services or plumbing services for your project, there are a number of important things that all homebuilders should add to their to-do list: All homebuilders need to go into their project with priorities for the build. This will help from a budgeting perspective by allowing you to see where the majority of your funds will end up. To that point, some people may set a kitchen project as being the most important part of their build whereas others may care more about the exterior walls.  All home building projects need to have a budget so that the owner of the new home is not drowning in debt by the end of the project. Create a realistic budget based on what you can afford, and then stick closely to that budget moving forward. To that end, focus on segmenting your budget based on different parts of the home. For example, set a maximum spend limit for the exterior of your home. Then, set limits for the interior spaces of your home such as the kitchen, bedrooms, and more. Finally, set limits for what you are willing to spend on furtniture and appliances in your home.  As you start to think about how you want the interior of your home to be laid out, consider how you will actually use your home. If you are constantly up and moving in the home, an open floor plan may be nice. However, some people may prefer a floorplan that feels more closed off so that rooms are separated more.  5 Don’ts of Home Building While all of the above to-dos are extremely important, there are also certain things a new homebuilder should avoid going into their project:  While choosing the contractor who charges the least for a project can be tempting, it’s not something you want to settle on for a project such as home building. While you may pay a lower cost now, there may be certain repair tasks that pop up in the near future stemming from a poor construction process. If there is anything you should invest more money into for a home build, it’s an accredited contractor.  You can’t build a budget for your home building project if you have no idea what things are going to cost. Reach out to different contractors for appliance costs, service costs, labor costs, and everything in between so that you can have a better understanding of what your total building cost will be.  When starting a home building process, everybody wants the latest and greatest technology and tools to be used in the construction of their home. Keep in mind, however, that these items do not come free. The more complicated your home build is, the pricier the total cost will be. Keep your budget at the top of mind so that you don’t accidentally exceed your maximum spend as you start to get excited with the project.  The bottom line Building a home is a great way to create a place that you will love to live in for years to come. Whether you hope to build a home for the purpose of raising a family or simply to create a roof over your head that you can take pride in, homebuilding is an excellent project. With that said, consider the overall time and cost commitment before beginning your project to determine if homebuilding is something you actually wish to pursue.  Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals 

Maintaining lawn care equipment is essential to ensure it continues to function optimally, season after season. Regular maintenance helps extend the lifespan of the equipment and keeps it performing at its best. But with so many different types of lawn care equipment available, it can be challenging to know where to start. Fortunately, by following a few simple maintenance tips, you can keep your equipment in excellent condition. From sharpening blades to cleaning air filters, regularly servicing your lawn care equipment can save you time and money in the long run. There’s no need to wait until something breaks down to start thinking about repairs. By taking preventive measures, you can ensure that your equipment performs to the best of its ability. Read on and discover how to ensure your gardening tools and devices stay in prime condition for years to come! Stay on the Lookout for Fault Codes Most newer models of lawn care equipment are equipped with fault codes designed to alert the user when something is wrong. These codes can be displayed on a screen or panel on the equipment itself, or they may be displayed on a remote control. If you see a fault code appear, take note of what it is and consult the manual to find out what it means. Of course, if you bought your lawn care equipment second-hand, you may not have an owner’s manual. Fortunately, the internet is a treasure trove of information, and you should be able to find out what the code means with a quick Google search. Got yourself a used John Deere vehicle, and it’s acting up? Find solutions with the John Deere fault codes list online to understand what’s wrong before it stops working completely. In some cases, you may be able to fix the problem yourself. However, if the code indicates a more serious issue, it’s best to take the equipment to a professional for repairs. Keep Blades Sharp One of the most important things you can do to keep your lawn care equipment in good condition is to keep the blades sharp. Dull blades can cause damage to your lawn and put unnecessary strain on your equipment’s engine. You can either sharpen the blades yourself or take them to a professional. If you decide to do it yourself, be sure to wear protective gloves and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Clean Air Filters Air filters play an essential role in maintaining the performance of your lawn care equipment. They prevent dirt and debris from entering the engine and can become clogged over time, causing the machine to work harder than necessary. To prevent this, it’s essential to clean the air filters regularly. This can be done by removing the filter and spraying it with compressed air or a gentle cleaning solution. Change Oil and Oil Filters Like any other engine, the engine in your lawn care equipment requires oil to function correctly. Over time, oil can become contaminated with dirt and debris, which can cause damage to the engine. To avoid this, it’s essential to change the oil and oil filters regularly. The frequency of oil changes will depend on the type of equipment you have and how often you use it, but many manufacturers recommend changing the oil every 50-100 hours of use. Check Spark Plugs The spark plugs in your lawn care equipment are responsible for igniting the fuel in the engine. Over time, spark plugs can become dirty or worn, which can cause the engine to misfire or not start at all. Remember to check the spark plugs regularly and replace them if necessary. This simple process can be done with a spark plug wrench and a new set of plugs. Inspect Belts and Hoses The belts and hoses in your lawn care equipment are responsible for transferring power from the engine to the various components of the equipment. Over time, these parts can become worn or damaged, which can cause the equipment to malfunction. As such, the belts and hoses should be the next things on your maintenance checklist to be regularly inspected and replaced when necessary. Buy High-Quality Replacement Parts When it comes time to replace parts on your lawn care equipment, buying high-quality replacement parts is important. Cheap, generic parts may be tempting, but they can cause more problems than they’re worth. Not only are they more likely to break down, but they can also void the warranty on your equipment. When in doubt, always buy replacement parts directly from the manufacturer or a reputable dealer. Conclusion By following these simple tips, you can keep your lawn care equipment in excellent condition for years to come. Of course, regular maintenance is only part of the equation. It’s also essential to store your equipment properly so that the environmental conditions don’t cause damage, and use only high-quality replacement parts when necessary. Remember that the need for regular maintenance can be drastically reduced by investing in quality lawn care equipment from the start. Do your research and buy from a reputable dealer to get the most bang for your buck. Avoid buying equipment others consider faulty — even if it’s being offered at a discount. In the end, it will only cost you more money in repairs and replacement parts. Now that you know how to keep your lawn care equipment in top condition, put these tips into practice and enjoy a beautiful lawn for years to come! Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals 

Sheet metal bending is a process that involves shaping metal sheets into various forms using different tools and techniques. Sheet metal bending can be done for a variety of reasons, such as manufacturing parts, constructing structures, or even for decorative purposes. In this article, we’ll Hitherbest sheet metal fabrications have kindly given us some top tips for bending sheet metal like a pro. Introduction Sheet metal bending is a crucial process in metalworking that is used to shape a sheet of metal into a particular form. This process involves applying force to the metal sheet, which causes it to bend or deform into a new shape. Sheet metal bending can be done using different techniques, tools, and materials depending on the desired outcome. In the following sections, we will discuss the most common types of sheet metal bending, tools used, tips for bending sheet metal, and common mistakes to avoid. Types of Sheet Metal Bending There are several types of sheet metal bending techniques that can be used to shape a metal sheet, including V-bending, U-bending, air bending, and bottoming. V-Bending V-bending is a type of sheet metal bending technique that involves clamping the metal sheet between a punch and a die. The punch applies pressure to the metal sheet, causing it to bend into a V shape. U-Bending U-bending is another technique that is commonly used in sheet metal bending. This technique is similar to V-bending, except that the metal sheet is bent into a U shape instead of a V shape. Air Bending Air bending is a type of sheet metal bending technique that involves using a punch and die to apply force to the metal sheet, causing it to bend. Unlike V-bending and U-bending, air bending does not require the metal sheet to be clamped tightly between the punch and die. Bottoming Bottoming is a sheet metal bending technique that involves bending the metal sheet until it makes contact with the bottom of the die. This technique is useful for creating sharp bends in sheet metal. Choosing the Right Tool for Sheet Metal Bending Choosing the right tool for sheet metal bending is essential for achieving the desired outcome. There are several tools that can be used for sheet metal bending, including press brakes, folding machines, and roll bending machines. Press Brake A press brake is a tool used for sheet metal bending that applies force to the metal sheet using a punch and die. Press brakes are available in different sizes and capacities and can be used for a variety of sheet metal bending applications. Folding Machine A folding machine is a tool used for sheet metal bending that bends the metal sheet by clamping it and folding it using a moving beam. Folding machines are commonly used for creating box-like shapes in sheet metal. Roll Bending Machine A roll bending machine is a tool used for sheet metal bending that bends the metal sheet by passing it between three rollers. Roll bending machines are commonly used for creating cylindrical shapes in sheet metal. Tips for Bending Sheet Metal Bending sheet metal requires skill and precision. Here are some tips to keep in mind when bending sheet metal: Measure Twice, Cut Once Before bending the sheet metal, it’s essential to measure and mark it accurately. Double-check the measurements before making any cuts to avoid wasting materials and time. Use the Right Tool for the Job Using the appropriate tool for sheet metal bending is crucial. Choose the right tool based on the thickness and type of metal, the desired bend angle, and the complexity of the shape. Properly Secure the Sheet Metal To avoid the sheet metal from moving during the bending process, it must be securely clamped to the tool. Ensure that the sheet metal is straight and level before clamping it in place. Avoid Over-Bending Over-bending is a common mistake that can cause the sheet metal to crack or deform. Follow the recommended bend angles for the thickness and type of metal being used to avoid over-bending. Use a Bend Allowance A bend allowance is the amount of material that needs to be added to the sheet metal’s length to compensate for the metal’s deformation during the bending process. Using a bend allowance helps to achieve precise and accurate bends. Use a Back Gauge A back gauge is a tool used to ensure that the sheet metal is positioned accurately before bending. It’s essential to use a back gauge to avoid mistakes and ensure consistent results. Common Mistakes to Avoid When Bending Sheet Metal Bending sheet metal can be challenging, and there are several common mistakes to avoid: Underestimating the Bend Radius The bend radius is the radius of the metal’s inner surface during bending. Underestimating the bend radius can cause the sheet metal to crack or deform, resulting in wasted materials and time. Neglecting Material Thickness Material thickness is crucial when bending sheet metal. Neglecting the material thickness can lead to inaccurate and imprecise bends, resulting in wasted materials and time. Improperly Positioning the Sheet Metal Positioning the sheet metal incorrectly can lead to inconsistent and inaccurate bends. It’s essential to use a back gauge to ensure that the sheet metal is positioned accurately before bending. Forgetting to Account for Springback Springback is the amount of deformation that occurs when the sheet metal is released from the bending tool. Forgetting to account for springback can lead to inaccurate and imprecise bends. Conclusion Sheet metal bending is a crucial process in metalworking that requires skill, precision, and the appropriate tools. By understanding the various techniques, choosing the right tool for the job, following tips for bending sheet metal, and avoiding common mistakes, you can achieve accurate and precise bends in sheet metal. FAQs What is the best tool for bending sheet metal? The best tool for bending sheet metal depends on several factors, including the thickness and type of metal, the desired bend angle, and the complexity of the shape. What is the

Worker safety is a crucial concern in oil fields, which are dangerous environments with a high risk of accidents and injuries. Creating a safe environment for your workers must be a priority, with the lurking danger of potential explosions, fires, and toxic gas leaks. Accidents incurred while working in a hazardous environment like an oil field can result in life-altering injuries. Gibson Hill discussed oil field injuries to workers and the compensation claim process. Compensating workers injured while working can be expensive, and creating a safe working environment would prevent you from incurring such costs. Having said that, here’s how to establish worker safety in oil fields: A comprehensive risk assessment is the first step to creating worker safety in your oil fields. Consider hiring professionals to conduct an intensive evaluation of the entire oil fields operations, like drilling, transport, storage, and maintenance of equipment and materials. The assessment lets you know all the potential risks and hazards in oil fields. Moreover, the existing safety measures would also be assessed, and their efficiency determined. Additionally, the evaluation should cover the potential impact of external factors and natural disasters. For example, what are the safety protocols for workers in case of an earthquake or collapse? Consider whether there’s a guidebook and safety equipment such as suitable first aid kits, protective gear, safety bunkers, and evacuation procedures. The risk assessment results can be used to create and implement the right safety measures to mitigate all the identified potential risks. For instance, if one of the risks identified is explosions or fires, consider more fire safety equipment such as extinguishers, training of employees on responding to such risks, and contacts for emergency responders. Moreover, the safety protocols should be flexible to accommodate changes during regular reviews and depending on needs. All the employees in the oil fields should receive sufficient safety training regularly. While most employees receive safety reminders and necessary updates before starting work, regular safety training can refresh their memory and cover any new potential risks in the oil fields. During training, some essential areas to cover are the correct use of personal protective equipment (PPE), safe handling of hazardous materials, and emergency response protocol. Ascertain that workers understand all potential risks and mitigation procedures while working in an oil field. You can test this understanding through mock drills for different situations, such as fires. The workers’ response during drills can help you test the safety protocols and help identify improvement areas. A safety management system can effectively identify potential risks, establish efficient safety measures, and regularly review and update. You can create a system that caters to your specific needs and risks. This system can also help rank the risks and help you focus resources on the most potent ones. Further, you’ll have an ongoing safety system for your employees. Consider a safety management system that incorporates policies and procedures for all aspects of the oil field operations. For example, you need clear guidelines on how drilling should be done and the authorised persons. It’d help if you also had specific procedures for transporting, storing, and maintaining hazardous materials to reduce risks. Clear lines of responsibility and safety accountability should be another aspect of the management system. A worker’s duties and responsibilities are clearly outlined and assigned depending on their skills and rank in the oil field. For example, drivers’ responsibilities are to transport materials strictly depending on instructions, such as from the field to the storage facility.  With technological advancements and innovations, you can significantly boost the safety of your employees in the oil fields. You can use drones to monitor and inspect areas that are hard to reach instead of endangering your workers. Using sensors to check hazardous leaks and monitor potential risks can also improve workers’ safety. Consider incorporating technological aspects that make your oil fields a better and more conducive environment. For example, wearable technology like smart helmets and vests can help monitor workers’ safety and give alerts in an emergency, such as when their bodies are in distress. Safety is an ongoing concern; regular audits can help keep your safety measures current. Consider hiring a third party to conduct the safety audit on your oil field. The safety audit should cover all aspects of the operations, including drilling, maintenance of materials, and transportation. For example, is the fire strategy for storage areas efficient, and do the workers understand how it works?  A safety audit aims to assess the efficacy of the present safety measures and note any areas that may need improvement. Ensure to address the identified risks and recommendations. The audit report can also help you assess the safety management system and whether it’s working. Conclusion Oil fields are dangerous, with many potential risks caused by internal factors such as negligence, environmental issues, and natural calamities. You can’t prevent accidents from happening, but having reasonable safety measures can help reduce injury to your workers. A safe working environment for your workers goes a long way to protecting your staff from harm while working in the oil fields. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals 

Melbourne is a bustling, cosmopolitan city that attracts students from all over the world. As a student in Melbourne, choosing suitable accommodation is crucial for your academic success and overall well-being. This guide will take you through the key factors to consider when choosing student accommodation in Melbourne. Location Location is one of the vital aspects to consider when choosing student accommodation in Melbourne. You want to be close to your university or college and all the amenities you need. Look for accommodation within walking distance or a short tram or bus ride to your institution. Additionally, consider proximity to supermarkets, restaurants, bars, and other entertainment options. Type of Accommodation Melbourne offers a range of student accommodation options, including shared apartments, student dorms, and private rentals. Each accommodation type has advantages and disadvantages, so it’s essential to consider your preferences and budget. Shared apartments are popular among students as they offer an outstanding balance between privacy and socialising. Student dorms are a more affordable and fun option. They also allow you to stay amongst like-minded students. Private rentals offer the most freedom and privacy, but they can be more expensive and require more responsibility for paying bills and managing the property. Budget Melbourne is a relatively expensive city, so it’s essential to consider your budget when choosing student accommodation. Prices vary depending on location, type of accommodation, and amenities, so it’s essential to research and set a realistic budget. Consider shared accommodation or student dorms if you’re on a tight budget. These options are generally more affordable than private rentals or homestays. However, remember that the cheapest option may not always be comfortable and convenient. Amenities When choosing student accommodation in Melbourne, it’s essential to consider the available amenities. Look for accommodation like http://iglu.com.au with amenities like a kitchen, laundry facilities, and Wi-Fi. Additionally, consider amenities such as a gym, pool, or study room. It’s essential to consider the most important amenities to you and prioritise them when deciding. Remember that the more amenities an accommodation offers, the higher the price may be. Safety and Security Safety and security should be top priorities when choosing student accommodation in Melbourne. Look for accommodation in a safe neighbourhood with security measures such as secure entrances, surveillance cameras, and on-site security personnel. Additionally, you may want to consider the safety of the accommodation itself. Look for well-maintained accommodations with safety features like smoke detectors and fire extinguishers. Lease Terms Before signing a lease for student accommodation in Melbourne, reviewing the lease terms carefully is essential. Ensure you understand the lease’s length, rent amount, and additional utilities or maintenance fees. Additionally, consider the flexibility of the lease terms. Look for accommodation that offers flexible lease terms, such as month-to-month leases, in case your plans change or you need to move out early. Social Life As a student in Melbourne, your social life is also an essential factor to consider when choosing accommodation. Look for accommodation in a lively neighbourhood or close to social hotspots. Additionally, consider accommodation that offers social events and activities to help you connect with other students and make new friends. Socialising and networking with other students can enhance your student experience and help you build valuable connections for your future career. Conclusion: Choosing suitable student accommodation in Melbourne is crucial for academic success and well-being. When making a decision, consider the factors mentioned in this guide. By researching and prioritising your needs and preferences, you can find the perfect accommodation to make your student experience in Melbourne memorable and enjoyable. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals 

Construction is one of the fastest-growing industries in the world, with the UK sector growing at a rapid annual pace of 3.7%. If you are a construction business owner, now is the perfect time to set some goals, develop a plan to take your company to the next level, and outshine your competitors. Here are some tips to help you do just that: Exceptional customer service is one of the most effective ways to grow your business. Whilst happy customers are more likely to refer your company, bad customer service can cause clients to leave negative reviews, and with Reputation X estimating that 86% of customers hesitate to buy from companies badly reviewed, this could be detrimental to your business. The following points are examples of common gripes customers have with construction companies: There are a number of measures you can take to improve your customer satisfaction rates. One method is by using ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) software. ERP helps companies manage and automate business processes by improving response times, order accuracy and access to customer information. The smoother your internal processes are, the better you can communicate with your clients and focus on delivering great construction work. 2. Be Selective about Sourcing Materials Cutting corners is not recommended when finding suitable building materials. Customers should rely on the safety and durability of the project they’ve paid for. However, high quality and cost-effectiveness are not mutually exclusive, many builders merchants, such as Builder Depot, offer bulk buy discounts or loyalty schemes which can help you save on construction supplies. 3. Develop a Strong Online Presence In today’s digital age, having a strong online presence is crucial for any business. To do this you can: The Head of Digital at Builder Depot commented that: “The importance of having a digital footprint and immersive experience of one’s store from anywhere in the world should not be underestimated – especially in the world of tomorrow.” 4. Network with Other Professionals Networking with other professionals in the construction industry can help you build valuable relationships and generate new business opportunities. To do this, you can attend industry events and join local business organisations. In 2023 there are over 94,500 construction contractor businesses in the UK, so building positive industry relationships is more accessible than ever. 5. Hire the Right Team Creating a positive environment where your workforce feels valued, respected, and heard is critical for the growth of any business. According to Construction Skills Network (CSN), an extra 225,000 construction workers may be needed by 2027 so the importance of finding and retaining a passionate team of skilled professionals should not be understated. You can find construction-based employee surveys online that focus on developing inclusive, engaging cultures while avoiding a high staff turnover. Companies can also implement continuous performance management, which involves one-on-one check-ins between managers and employees. Continuous performance management has been shown to increase employee engagement while encouraging honest, open communication, thereby reducing employee turnover. 6. Stay Up to Date with Industry Trends Keeping up with the latest trends and developments in the construction industry is vital for maintaining steady growth. Not only can following trends help you stay one step ahead of your competitors, but the industry too; by following trends carefully, you can more accurately predict what will happen within the construction trade and act accordingly. There are several ways you can stay informed about new technologies, best practices and emerging trends: Growing a construction business requires a combination of hard work, dedication and strategic planning. It’s a tall order, but these tips can position your business for success in 2023 and beyond. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals 

Palaces, which used to serve as homes for kings and queens, were constructed not only as royal abodes but also as a means to showcase power and prestige. Consequently, monarchs and emperors engaged in a competition to outdo each other by constructing extravagant summer homes and accumulating exquisite art collections to adorn their grand halls and regal apartments. Apart from the impressive architecture and artworks, the former royal dwellings also boast captivating gardens and grounds adorned with magnificent fountains and blooming flower beds. These stunning palaces are now among the most frequented tourist attractions and museums in the vicinity, given their significant artistic, cultural, and historical worth. These palaces are amongst the most expensive in the world. Only billionaires can afford to buy such estates. Not even a jackpot winner can buy one of them. However, considering the chances of winning the jackpot and the reward size, big prize winners can still afford less castles like the £600 million St James’s Palace. Now that you understand just how valuable these old palaces are, let’s get this list started. Louvre Palace, France (£37.5 Billion) The Louvre Palace, located in Paris, France, is a historical monument and museum that dates back to the 12th century. It was originally built as a fortress but was later expanded and renovated by various monarchs over the centuries. Today, the Louvre is one of the world’s largest museums, containing over 38,000 objects and artefacts from all over the world, including the iconic Mona Lisa painting. The palace also houses several administrative offices and academic institutions. The Louvre Palace is estimated to be worth around £37.5 billion, according to a report by Forbes in 2019. However, similar to the Palace of Versailles, its true value is difficult to measure due to its immense historical and cultural significance. Palace of Versailles (£42 billion) Versailles, initially a modest hunting lodge, underwent a remarkable transformation under Louis XIV to become one of the largest and most splendid palaces in history. The Sun King embellished and expanded the palace before eventually making it his royal abode and administrative centre. Although many of its most treasured works of art and possessions were transferred to the Louvre after the French Revolution, extensive refurbishment and reconstruction work has restored the palace to its former magnificence. Today, the Palace of Versailles is one of France’s most sought-after tourist destinations. Millions of visitors flock every year to see the stunning Royal Apartments, the dazzling Hall of Mirrors, and the grand Royal Opera. Of course, the palace’s spectacular gardens, complete with impressive fountains and flower beds, are also a must-see. Given the historical, cultural, and architectural significance of the palace, which has witnessed many world-changing events, the Palace of Versailles stands as one of the country’s most vital treasures. Winter Palace (£5.67 billion) The Winter Palace, formerly the residence of the Russian Tsars, is now home to the world-renowned Hermitage museum. Constructed in the Elizabethan Baroque style, the palace’s seemingly boundless green and white walls are reputed to encompass over 1,500 intricately designed and ornamented rooms. The palace’s magnificence, along with the exceptional art and architecture on display, serves as a testament to the might and power of Imperial Russia. However, in 1917, the monarchy and empire came to an end when the Winter Palace was seized during one of the critical moments of the Russian Revolution. Today, the palace and museum are among the most significant attractions in Saint Petersburg, showcasing the city’s historical and cultural heritage. Forbidden City (£58.4 Billion) Since its inception in 1406, the Forbidden City has been a symbol of dominance and significance in central Beijing and throughout China. As the imperial residence of the Ming and Qing dynasties’ emperors, this grandiose palace served as the seat of power for their vast empires. The palace complex spans a substantial area, encompassed by a high wall and a broad moat, and contains approximately 980 distinctive buildings. These architectural marvels exemplify remarkable Chinese palace design, with the Hall of Supreme Harmony and the Palace of Heavenly Purity being only two of the many must-see attractions. Following the abdication of the last emperor in 1925, the Palace Museum maintained the Forbidden City, which exhibits an incredible range of artwork and artefacts for visitors to appreciate. A culmination of over two thousand years of Chinese and East Asian art and architecture, the Forbidden City is a crucial and awe-inspiring destination in Beijing and throughout China. FAQs Which is the richest palace in the world? Reportedly, the 775-bedroom Buckingham Palace is the most expensive property in the world. It is official residence of the British Royal Family since 1837 has an estimated value of nearly £1.4 billion as per a May 2022 Bloomberg report. What is the smallest palace in the world? Built in 1631 as a fashionable mansion for a wealthy London silk merchant, Kew Palace is the smallest among all the royal palaces. Where is the oldest palace in the world? With almost 1,000 years of history, Windsor Castle has been the family home of British monarchs and is currently the oldest inhabited castle in the world. As an official royals’ residence, the castle is still a functioning royal palace and houses around 150 people. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals