Blenheim Palace is inspiring the next generation of architects with a nationwide design competition, where winners will receive an incredible prize, including a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to sign a roof slate and have their name in situ on Britain’s Greatest Palace for centuries to come. The Baroque masterpiece and UNESCO World Heritage Site has launched the competition for the next generation to leave their own mark on history, to coincide with Blueprints of Power, its latest exhibition, which celebrates the 300th anniversary of its architect Sir John Vanbrugh (1664–1726).  The competition, announced during National Careers Week (2nd-7th March 2026), features three categories:  To enter, participants must submit their response to the brief in their category via a PDF A4 visual to blenheim@cabcampaign.co.uk by Wednesday, 18th March. Entries will be judged by an esteemed panel including Sir Charles Saumarez Smith CBE, author, curator and architectural historian, Kelly O’Driscoll, Head of Built Heritage at Blenheim Palace and Donald Insall Associates Practice Director, and Edward Lewis, currently leading the restoration project at Blenheim Palace. Winners in each category will be announced Monday, 23rd March and will receive: Heather Carter, Managing Director – Visitor Attraction, Blenheim Palace, said: “This period of vital restoration has been a truly historic moment and a chance for everyone to see Blenheim Palace from a whole new perspective. Alongside the project, it’s been wonderful to witness our visitors marvel at the incredible new exhibition that highlights one of the world’s most renowned architects and brings to life a timeline showcasing the different stages of building Blenheim Palace. “We have such a rich architectural history, so this challenge is an exciting one. We can’t wait to see the submissions and do not doubt that the talented aspiring architects in the UK will create some amazing designs.” The monumental £12 million roof restoration project at Blenheim Palace began in early 2025 after a combination of age, climate change and penetration from rainfall led to the declining state of the roof, the attic timbers and ceilings below. Earlier this year, the heritage attraction launched its Sign a Slate initiative, giving the general public a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to sign a roof slate in exchange for a donation to support the vital roof repairs, helping to preserve the Palace’s historic architecture and safeguard its heritage for future generations. Admission to the Blueprints of Power exhibition and to see the restoration in action is included with a valid day ticket or Pass to Britain’s Greatest Palace. Beyond this competition, on Wednesday 29th April from 4:30pm-7pm, the three judges will also join forces for a Panel Talk: Vanbrugh’s Hidden Blenheim at Donald Insall Associates studio in Marylebone. The panel will bridge the gap between historical archives and their on-site discoveries, assessing Vanbrugh’s legacy and the modern challenges of climate resilience and heritage conservation. For more information about the competition and the terms and conditions, visit www.blenheimpalace.com/whats-on/events/john-vanbrugh-competition/ To find out about Blenheim Palace, the major restoration efforts, the new exhibition, and to book tickets, visit www.blenheimpalace.com  *Terms and conditions apply. This element of the prize will only be received by the winner of the Rising Architect (18+) category. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Hong Kong’s architectural landscape is defined by density, terrain, and global capital. As one of the world’s leading financial centres, the city attracts internationally recognised architecture studios capable of operating at scale while navigating complex regulatory frameworks and limited land supply. From high-rise commercial towers to cultural institutions and refined residential projects, international firms continue to shape Hong Kong’s evolving built environment. The following five studios represent a cross-section of global design leadership with relevance to the city’s architectural market. 1. Alexis Dornier Studio (Indonesia/Germany) Founded by German architect Alexis Dornier, the studio has built a strong international reputation for refined, climate-responsive architecture. While much of its built portfolio is located in Southeast Asia, the practice’s design approach aligns closely with Hong Kong’s emerging demand for bespoke residential and boutique hospitality projects. Dornier’s work is characterised by structural clarity, strong geometric composition, and a sensitive relationship between interior space and landscape. Projects such as Atacaya House and Umah-Padi House demonstrate how environmental intelligence and luxury design can coexist through passive ventilation, layered volumes, and controlled daylight. As demand increases for architect projects in Hong Kong that move beyond conventional glass tower typologies, there is growing interest in practices capable of delivering bespoke, atmosphere-driven architecture. Dornier’s approach prioritises spatial experience and material depth over spectacle, positioning the studio well within the city’s high-end residential and lifestyle segment. In a city where premium residential architecture increasingly prioritises atmosphere and spatial refinement over spectacle, this design philosophy resonates strongly. 2. Foster + Partners (United Kingdom) Foster + Partners has had a lasting impact on Hong Kong’s skyline. The HSBC Main Building remains one of the city’s most significant architectural landmarks, celebrated for its high-tech structural expression and flexible interior planning. The practice continues to deliver large-scale commercial, transport, and mixed-use projects globally, bringing advanced engineering and sustainability strategies to dense urban markets such as Hong Kong. 3. Herzog & de Meuron (Switzerland) Swiss practice Herzog & de Meuron is known for material experimentation and sculptural precision. In Hong Kong, the firm designed the M+ Museum in the West Kowloon Cultural District, one of Asia’s most important contemporary art institutions. The building’s façade system and strong waterfront presence reinforce Hong Kong’s position as a cultural capital within the region. 4. Zaha Hadid Architects (United Kingdom) Zaha Hadid Architects is internationally recognised for fluid geometries and large-scale civic architecture. The firm has contributed to infrastructure and masterplanning projects across Asia, bringing advanced parametric design and structural innovation to complex urban sites. In high-density cities such as Hong Kong, expertise in transport integration and mixed-use coordination is particularly valuable. 5. Kohn Pedersen Fox (United States) KPF specialises in high-rise and mixed-use developments across global financial centres. With extensive experience delivering premium commercial towers, the firm brings façade performance optimisation, vertical planning efficiency, and sustainability integration to competitive property markets like Hong Kong. Its global portfolio reflects a consistent ability to respond to dense metropolitan contexts with technically rigorous design. International Architecture in Hong Kong Hong Kong’s regulatory framework, including the Buildings Ordinance and strict site utilisation controls, requires international studios to collaborate closely with local consultants and licensed professionals. Successful projects depend on technical coordination as much as design ambition. As land values remain high and development pressure continues, the city’s architectural future will rely on practices capable of balancing performance, density, and refinement. The studios listed above represent a range of global expertise influencing Hong Kong’s built environment today.

Construction has begun on a new housing development at 320 Swindon Road in the St Paul’s neighbourhood of Cheltenham, with diggers on site to start the build. The milestone signals the start of work on 24 homes that will rise over the coming months, bringing much-needed, high-quality housing to the town. Following site clearance and ahead of foundation works, representatives from Cheltenham Borough Council and contractor Speller Metcalfe officially broke ground on 18 November 2025. The £6.2 million scheme will deliver 17 apartments and seven houses, offered through social rent and shared ownership to help meet local demand for affordable homes. As part of the council’s social value commitments, the project is creating jobs for local people and supporting existing apprenticeships for students. Over the months ahead, the council and Speller Metcalfe will volunteer and donate equipment to community initiatives and charities, as well as visit nearby schools to promote careers in construction and environmental stewardship. Councillor Rowena Hay, leader of the council, said: “We’re delighted to be in a position to break ground and mark the start of this important journey to bring more affordable homes to the town. Our upcoming flagship development is a great example of the high standard we work towards in providing safe and good quality housing that people can afford to live in. “Now that the diggers are out, we are excited to be part of this crucial milestone which is long overdue. I am looking forward to seeing the site take shape over the coming months – it’s not just about providing much-n Sustainability is central to the design, with solar panels, ground source heat pumps and low‑carbon construction methods specified to improve energy efficiency and reduce environmental impact. The plans also include green outdoor areas to boost biodiversity, with new trees and planting complemented by features such as hedgehog highways and bat, bee and bird boxes. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Award-winning architecture practice HLM Architects – operating studios across England, Scotland, Wales, Ireland and Northern Ireland – is expanding its UK footprint with the launch of a new design studio in Plymouth. Responding to growing demand across the South West, the move strengthens HLM’s national presence and becomes its seventh location, joining Sheffield, London, Cardiff, Glasgow, Belfast and Dublin. Located in creative workspace Alma Yard, the new studio marks a return to Plymouth for HLM, which operated an office in the city until 2018. The practice has previously designed several acclaimed projects in the area – including Whitleigh Education Campus, Chamberlain House at Plymouth Science Park, the Marine Station at Coxside, and Brannell School in Cornwall.   HLM has continued to play a pivotal role in the South West in recent years, delivering strategic support to the Defence Infrastructure Organisation, the Royal Navy at HMNB Devonport, and the wider defence sector across the region. The new Plymouth studio will be led by Kay Hanson, a designer with deep ties to the region. Kay spent 14 years at HLM earlier in her career and lectured at both Arts University Plymouth and University of Plymouth. She recently joined the South West Women in Construction committee, further strengthening her ties to the local construction industry. Commenting on her appointment as Studio Director, Kay said: “I’m delighted to be back at HLM and relaunching our Plymouth base. All of our studios are rooted in their respective communities, and this will be no different. I’m extremely passionate about the South West and looking forward to leading a team that can grow and thrive here. “We believe that architecture is most impactful when it’s embedded in place, and this studio will offer talented individuals the chance to build their careers locally, within a practice that values both community engagement and design excellence.” Michael Scherdel, Managing Director of HLM Architects, added: “We’ve seen a significant rise in opportunities across the South West, so returning to Plymouth feels like a very natural step for the business and reflects our confidence in the region. “With major investment and regeneration underway, we’re looking forward to playing a role in shaping the region’s future and continuing to build on our strong relationships here.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Plans for a new theatre venue at The Lights in Andover have been approved, with planning consent granted by Test Valley Borough Council’s planning committee. The new three-storey venue will feature a state-of-the-art auditorium with seating for over 400 people, a significant increase from the current 249-seat theatre. The design also includes a separate, flexible space for performances and events, dance studios, meeting rooms available for public hire, and café and bar areas at either end of the building. Outdoor terraced spaces will offer visitors pleasant areas to relax during warmer months. The Lights, a long-standing community hub, has become increasingly oversubscribed, driving the need for expansion to meet growing demand. The new venue will allow simultaneous use of the auditorium and secondary event space, while classes and meetings can take place throughout the building. With quality soundproofing and a design supporting nearly 1,000 people at full occupancy, the theatre is expected to boost Andover’s daytime and evening economy by attracting more visitors to the town centre. The design, developed by theatre specialists Burrell Foley Fischer, reflects the character of Andover’s historic centre while providing modern, accessible facilities. Inspired by St Mary’s Church and the Guildhall, the façade will feature a series of stone arches forming a striking colonnade, crafted from light-coloured stone to reflect the local chalk stream, with pale brick, natural flint, and bronze accents. Councillor Phil North, leader of Test Valley Borough Council, said: “This is a landmark moment for Andover. The new theatre will be a place to celebrate creativity and community – and a catalyst for economic growth. It’s a key part of our wider regeneration plans and will help bring more people into the town centre, day and night.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Scottish architecture practice Bracewell, part of Global (formerly Global Energy Group), has expanded its footprint south of the border through the acquisition of Gould Singleton Architects, based in Halesowen in the West Midlands. The move marks a significant milestone in Global’s strategy to strengthen its design and construction presence across the UK and take on larger, more complex projects nationwide. Under the agreement, both firms will continue trading under their established names – Bracewell and Gould Singleton Architects – with all staff and management retained. The deal brings together two respected practices with complementary expertise, uniting Scottish design creativity with Midlands-based technical and delivery strength. Bracewell senior partner David Keith said the collaboration represents an exciting new chapter for both firms.“As long-term admirers of Gould Singleton Architects – and Stephen Cox and fellow director Peter Icke – myself and fellow Bracewell senior partner, Amanda MacRitchie, are thrilled to bring together these two long-established practices. While we will both continue to operate individually under our strong and recognised brands, servicing clients in our key markets, the scaling up of our resources this investment brings will allow the enlarged entity to work closely together to grow and explore bigger opportunities, which is really exciting for us all.” He added that since Bracewell joined the Global portfolio last year, the practice has already experienced the advantages of being part of a larger, multi-disciplinary organisation – from access to new sectors to enhanced resources and collaboration. Gould Singleton director Stephen Cox said the partnership was a natural fit for both firms.“Having previously worked closely with other companies in the Global portfolio, we are excited to join together with David Keith, Amanda MacRitchie and their team to explore new markets and deliver bigger projects together,” he said. “This really is a meeting of minds and a great fit, with the combining of our resources, capabilities and geographical reach allowing us to work with existing and new clients to deliver major commercial and residential projects right across the UK.” The acquisition strengthens Global’s architectural presence across the country and marks another step in its long-term vision to unite leading design and construction expertise from Scotland to the Midlands and beyond. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Plans have been formally submitted for the first phase of City Village, a new sustainable community set to transform Bradford’s former commercial core into a thriving city centre neighbourhood. The multi-million regeneration is being delivered by ECF – a partnership between Homes England, Legal & General, and Muse – working alongside Bradford Council. The scheme will cover the ‘Top of Town’ area, including the Oastler, Kirkgate, and Chain Street sites. City Village is expected to deliver up to 1,000 modern, energy-efficient homes, including affordable housing, as well as new retail, leisure, and business opportunities that build on the success of the area’s existing independent traders. The masterplan also features three new landscaped green spaces, complementing recent city centre walking and cycling improvements, to create a safer, greener and better-connected environment. A detailed planning application has been submitted for Phase One, alongside an outline application for the remainder of the site. Phase One proposals include: Bradford-based affordable housing provider Incommunities has been named as ECF’s preferred funding partner for the first phase, subject to a final legal agreement. Later phases are expected to deliver more than 700 apartments across the Oastler and Kirkgate sites. Councillor Susan Hinchcliffe, Leader of Bradford Council, said: “It is very exciting to be taking this next step towards realising the vision for City Village. Just as we’ve recently seen Darley Street Market successfully open its doors to great acclaim, so City Village will continue our work to transform the ‘top of town’. It will be game-changing for the city centre. “City Village is so much more than a housing development; it’s about creating a thriving, people-centric neighbourhood that encourages activity and brings communities together. We are leading the way on this, and it will set the gold standard for the future of urban living.” Over the last 18 months, ECF has worked closely with Bradford Council to refine the plans, drawing on feedback from hundreds of local residents. The scheme has already secured significant inward investment, including £13.2 million in-principle funding from the West Yorkshire Combined Authority, alongside £30 million of Government support via Homes England. Simon Dew, Director of Development Management – Yorkshire and North East at ECF, said: “The design of these homes – taken from the experience of our other award-winning communities across the country – include sustainable elements such insulation, photovoltaic panels and EV charging to ensure they are as energy efficient as possible. The plans have also been informed by extensive and thorough community conversations and reflect the overwhelmingly positive feedback we have had. These are high quality homes with gardens, designated parking and good connections to public transport links as well as new walking and cycling routes. “There are landscaped areas of public space creating new green spaces which will bring people together and very much help to foster the community spirit we hope to nurture here. This is an ambitious, visionary project and working in partnership with the Council, we have the very best team working to bring it forward. We are all extremely proud of what it will mean for future generations in Bradford.” If approved, demolition of the Oastler site is due to begin later this year, with construction of Phase One expected to start in spring 2026. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals