Architectural trends bridging the gap between interior and exterior spaces
The traditional boundaries between the home and the garden are increasingly blurred in modern architecture. As homeowners seek to maximise their living areas without the logistical nightmare of a full-scale brick-and-mortar extension, architects and developers are turning toward versatile, high-end structural solutions. The goal is no longer just to provide a view of the outdoors, but to create a seamless transition that allows the exterior to function as an integral part of the home’s floor plan. This shift in residential design is driven by a desire for “indoor-outdoor” living, a concept that has evolved far beyond the simple patio door. Modern developments now prioritise thermal efficiency, structural lightness, and aesthetic cohesion. By treating the garden as an additional “room,” developers can significantly increase the perceived value and utility of a property, providing the flexible spaces that the 2026 market demands. Integrating the glass sliding door into contemporary building design At the heart of this architectural evolution is the widespread adoption of the glass sliding door as a primary structural element. Unlike the heavy, framed bifolds of the past, today’s minimalist sliding systems offer expansive, uninterrupted views that effectively remove the visual barrier between the lounge and the terrace. These systems are designed to slide effortlessly, allowing for a large-scale opening that creates a fluid thoroughfare for air and light. From a construction perspective, these glass walls provide a sophisticated solution for managing natural light in narrow urban plots. They allow architects to flood interior spaces with daylight, reducing the reliance on artificial lighting and improving the overall wellbeing of the occupants. When specified correctly, these systems maintain high levels of insulation, ensuring that the home remains energy-efficient during the winter while offering the possibility of a completely open-plan living experience during the summer months. Enhancing property utility with a modern carport While much of the focus on outdoor living remains on the rear of the property, the front elevation is seeing its own functional revolution. The traditional garage is often viewed as a missed opportunity for space, frequently used for storage rather than vehicle protection. Consequently, we are seeing a rise in the specification of the contemporary carport in new build developments. These structures provide a lightweight, aesthetically pleasing alternative to the enclosed garage, offering protection from the elements without the heavy footprint of a traditional building. A well-designed aluminium structure can complement the lines of a modern house, providing a sheltered area that is both practical and visually unobtrusive. This is particularly relevant in the context of the growing EV market, where homeowners require easy, sheltered access to charging points. By integrating these structures into the initial design phase, developers can offer a premium feel that maintains an open, airy street scene. The future of modular outdoor structures The trend toward modularity in construction shows no signs of slowing down. Homeowners are increasingly looking for ways to customise their properties over time, and high-quality modular kits allow for this flexibility. Many industry professionals are now looking toward specialist manufacturers like Tuinmaximaal, who provide robust, professional-grade aluminium components that can be tailored to fit specific architectural requirements. This “plug-and-play” approach to high-end garden structures allows for rapid installation with minimal disruption to the site. Ultimately, the successful bridge between interior and exterior spaces relies on the quality of the materials and the thoughtfulness of the design. By incorporating expansive glass systems and functional sheltered areas, we can create homes that feel larger, brighter, and more connected to the world outside. As we look toward the future of UK residential development, these versatile structures will continue to play a pivotal role in how we define the modern British home.
‘Give to Gain’ HarperCrewe encourages women into the home building industry this International Womens Day
Leamington Spa based new homes builder HarperCrewe is celebrating this year’s International Women’s Day theme – Give to Gain – across all areas of its business The global event runs annually on 8th March, is now in its 115th year with a different theme each year to celebrate the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women, whilst also calling for gender equality. This year’s theme aims to encourage a mindset of generosity and collaboration regardless of gender, whilst also emphasising how opportunities for women increase when people, organisations and communities give donations, knowledge, resources, infrastructure, visibility, advocacy, education, training, mentoring or time. Housebuilding and construction is often considered a male-dominated industry. Three women in senior roles at HarperCrewe share their stories to encourage and support women thinking of entering the field: Nicola Gott, Commercial Manager, said: “I work with a team of Quantity Surveyors and Buyers. After the birth of my children, I joined the housebuilding industry a little later in life after going back to study as a ‘mature student’ to obtain a Higher National Certificate. Studying with two small children was hard work, but I was determined to succeed and passed my exams with distinction. Initially, I joined the Buying Department at HarperCrewe, but soon moved into Quantity Surveying. “The commercial department has input right from the start of a development, from initial land purchases all the way through to customer care when each house is handed over to a new resident to make it their home. The work is varied and no two days are the same. We work with every discipline internally within our business and with every construction trade working on site. Building relationships is absolutely vital and being confident and not being afraid to challenge is a must. “For any women thinking of joining the housebuilding industry, I would say go for it! Be prepared for hard work and challenges, but also be prepared for the delight of driving past a community that is thriving years later, knowing that you played a crucial part in that.” Deborah Crombie, Group Design Manager, added her experience: “I work on residential developments from concept through to delivery. After studying Architecture to Masters level at university, I moved into the residential housing sector. I’ve always had a passion for design, and I’m particularly focused on how developments come together at street level — how materials work alongside one another, how different house types sit next to each other, and how the overall development feels as a place to live. For me, it’s about creating thoughtful, well-balanced environments where communities can grow and thrive. “I value the collaborative nature of the industry and the role each discipline plays in achieving that shared vision. For women considering a career in construction or development, I would encourage you to be confident in your perspective and not be afraid to take up space in the room. This industry needs more female voices at every level. Seek out mentors, ask questions, and back yourself — remember your contribution has real value.” Danielle Heard, Sales & Marketing Director at HarperCrewe who has extensive experience in sales leadership, said: “I’m really passionate about developing young people and supporting their growth throughout their careers. I’m a big believer in sharing knowledge, building confidence and collaborating for the good of the business. “While there is equal opportunity for anyone to succeed in new homes sales, this area of the business does tend to attract more women than men and I always support new team members early in their professional journey, encouraging them to trust their abilities, and pursue opportunities with self-assurance.” HarperCrewe currently employs 87 staff, of which 34 are women, including two female directors. To find out more about International Women’s Day 2026 and how to support women through collaboration and encouragement, visit: internationalwomensday.com For more information about a career with HarperCrewe, visit: harpercrewe.com/careers-at-harpercrewe Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Timber-first Cheadle Eco Park breaks ground in bid to become UK sustainability benchmark
Construction has started on Cheadle Eco Park, a £25m light-industrial development in Stockport that is being positioned as one of the UK’s most environmentally ambitious industrial schemes. Caddick Construction has begun work on the project for Stockport Council, delivering six new units ranging from 8,374 sq ft to 43,800 sq ft. The development will provide 115,000 sq ft of accommodation in total, replacing older industrial buildings on a seven-acre site on Bird Hall Lane in Cheadle Heath. Designed by AEW Architects, the scheme is targeting BREEAM Outstanding, placing it among the highest-performing non-residential buildings in the UK in sustainability terms. The development is also aiming for an EPC A rating, supported by a range of low-carbon technologies including air source heat pumps, natural ventilation and smart energy-efficient lighting systems. A standout feature of the project is its timber structure. Stockport Council said the scheme will be the UK’s largest purpose-built industrial and logistics development to use a frame constructed entirely from sustainably sourced timber. The approach has been selected in place of a traditional steel frame to reduce embodied carbon and support the project’s wider sustainability objectives. The development is being supported by a £4.4m grant from the Government’s Town Fund. Network Space Developments is acting as development manager on behalf of Stockport Council, which owns the site. The scheme is scheduled for completion in March 2027. David Saville, north west managing director at Caddick Construction, said the start on site marks an important moment for Stockport and for the future of sustainable industrial development across the region. He added that the project is designed to exceptional environmental standards and aims to support the next generation of low-carbon businesses. Brian Bradley, chair of the Cheadle Towns Fund Board, said the development represents a major step forward for Cheadle’s economic future, bringing modern industrial space, supporting clean growth and creating a sustainable employment destination for years to come. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
John Lewis pulls out of build-to-rent as higher rates derail housing push
John Lewis Partnership has scrapped its in-house housing venture and abandoned plans to deliver around 1,000 build-to-rent homes across three sites, citing a major change in economic conditions behind the decision. The employee-owned retailer confirmed it is withdrawing from the build-to-rent market after concluding that the financial case no longer stacks up in today’s higher interest rate environment. The move ends a diversification strategy first set out in 2020, aimed at generating long-term income by developing surplus land and airspace above existing stores. John Lewis had secured planning permission for residential schemes above Waitrose supermarkets in Bromley and West Ealing, as well as a separate development on a former industrial site in Reading. In West Ealing, the proposals comprised 428 flats across four high-rise blocks above the Waitrose store. Bromley would have delivered 353 rental homes in a 24-storey building above the supermarket, while the Reading plan involved 170 flats as part of a £70m scheme. The partnership said it will now enter final discussions with local authorities before deciding the future of the sites, with options expected to include selling them on to property developers. John Lewis pointed to a combination of rising borrowing costs, higher build costs and weaker investor appetite as key factors in its decision, noting that the venture was designed for a market environment that no longer exists. Investment manager abrdn had been working with the retailer on the programme. A spokesperson said the rental ambition was based on more stable investment returns, lower borrowing costs and more affordable construction costs, but that inflationary pressures and a more cautious property market have meant the model no longer meets the partnership’s investment criteria. Alongside the shift away from build-to-rent, the retailer also confirmed it is exiting property management. That business will be wound down once existing contracts covering four residential buildings come to an end. The move represents a clear reset of John Lewis Partnership’s property strategy, with the business choosing to refocus on its core retail operations and strengthen its balance sheet amid ongoing uncertainty in the housing development and investment market. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Bristol Airport awards £30m terminal extension contract to Farrans
Bristol Airport has awarded a £30m terminal extension project to leading building and civil engineering contractor Farrans, as it continues with its plans to invest £400 million to transform the airport experience for customers. Work has already commenced on the two-floor terminal extension which will infill an area between the existing terminal building and the departure gates. The new area will cater for an increase to 12 million passengers per year. There will be more space and almost double the number of shops and restaurants, with 17 new units being incorporated into the design. There will also be space for island retail units and more seating, designed with comfort in mind. The arrivals hall is also benefitting from a new domestic arrivals reclaim area with an additional baggage carousel and an increase in capacity by 20%. Accessibility in immigration will be improved with new lifts and stairs. Farrans, in a joint venture with Griffiths, previously completed the new Public Transport Interchange at Bristol Airport on time and on budget in July 2025. The £60 million project, also part of the Airport’s £400 million investment, has enabled more sustainable journeys and sees around 250 public transport movements a day. Andrew Goodenough, Infrastructure Director at Bristol Airport said: “We have ambitious plans to transform our customer experience over the next couple of years, and we really appreciate our customers patience and understanding while all of these massive improvements are taking place. “Floor space is going to increase by almost 45% and we’ll have a total of 38 retail and food and beverage outlets including premium brands and dining options as well as a hidden speakeasy bar. We’re pleased to have Farrans back on site with us to deliver this project following the success of our Public Transport Interchange.” Gerard McNamee, Project Manager at Farrans said: “This is an exciting project which will be completed in a live environment in which all passenger routes need to remain open at all times. We have an extensive aviation portfolio with projects underway at Leeds Bradford Airport, Stansted Airport and Bristol Airport at the moment, so we are well versed in working collaboratively with our clients to reduce any disruption. We will be installing insulated hoardings and creating air locked spaces to maintain passenger flow. “One of the most innovative features logistically for this project is that we will be using a Bailey Bridge, a modular military style bridge designed for rapid construction to temporarily bridge gaps, to bring our vehicles and equipment from land side to airside. We anticipate that at the peak of this project we will have approximately 150 people employed and many will be from local suppliers. As with our Public Transport Interchange scheme we will be working with our client to deliver an impactful social value programme throughout the extension works.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Doka advances construction of Denmark’s third-longest bridge
With the construction of the new Storstrøm Bridge, Denmark is modernizing a key section of the Scandinavian road and rail network. To ensure safe and stable progress under complex geometrical and environmental conditions, Doka is supporting the project with an integrated formwork and shoring concept designed to deliver predictable workflows across all critical execution stages. With a total length of approximately 3.8 kilometers, the Storstrøm Bridge will become Denmark’s third-longest bridge. Beyond its size, the project plays a strategic role within a high-capacity north–south transport corridor. Together with the Fehmarnbelt Fixed Link, it forms part of a continuous connection between Scandinavia and Central Europe, supporting cross-border passenger and freight transport by road and rail. “The Storstrøm Bridge project demanded a concept that could adapt precisely and easily to changing geometries while withstanding high wind loads. Doka’s engineering approach provided the stability and flexibility required to maintain a reliable construction sequence under continuously changing geometric conditions, particularly in the onshore environment”, explains Aurelia Penza, Technical Manager, Itinera. Strengthening a key Scandinavian–European transport corridor Doka has been contributing to the Storstrøm Bridge project since 2019 across multiple phases. The scope included solutions for the approximately 80-meter-long approach bridges on both sides, onshore prefabricated pierheads, cantilever structures connecting the precast bridge segments to the pylon, as well as formwork for the pylon itself. To complete the overall setup, a tailor-made working platform was implemented to support the closing structural works of the cable-stayed bridge. “For Denmark, the Storstrøm Bridge represents a significant step in enhancing the national transport network and its cross-border connectivity. Our involvement since 2019 reflects our close collaboration with the client and our ability to support technically demanding bridge construction projects. As a reliable partner, we at Doka make it work — delivering high-performance solutions for complex infrastructure projects,” adds Martin Overgaard Skovsege, Managing Director, Doka Denmark. Engineering Excellence for Demanding Requirements As the central supporting structure of this cable-stayed bridge, the 102 m pylon not only transfers all forces into the foundation but also features a highly complex design with variable geometry, integrated recesses, prefabricated boxouts, and casing pipes for the stay cables. The pylon works marked a critical point within the overall sequence. By combining SKE100 plus platforms for high loads and multi-level working areas with flexible SKE50 plus platforms on the space-restricted sides, a cost-effective and efficient system was realized. Tailor-Made Working Platform for the Final Structural Operations The closing stage of the cable-stayed bridge was supported by a tailor-made working platform that enabled the final operations of the project. Erected level by level using the Staxo 100 load-bearing tower, it rested on four stationary SKE100 plus and SKE50 plus climbing brackets, reusing the proven anchorage points from the pylon construction. Two integrated stair towers ensured safe and comfortable access throughout all operations. Firmly connected to the pylon, the platform provided stable and reliable working conditions even under demanding wind and load requirements, successfully completing the pylon works and marking a key milestone in the overall construction sequence. Doka’s contribution to the Storstrøm Bridge project demonstrates how engineering-driven formwork and shoring solutions can support complex infrastructure projects across multiple, independent stages, from early works through to key structural milestones. The bridge is expected to open to road traffic in 2026, with rail services scheduled to follow. Project facts: Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals