Features

2020 will not be easily forgotten. With the loss of so many loved ones, the financial impact of being furloughed or losing one’s job, as well as witnessing the struggles of officials attempting to manage the situation, it’s certain that the impact of coronavirus will stay with us for a long time. However, from the depths of this crisis and its negative impact, there are hidden pockets of positivity, says Alan Dowdall, Associate at Ramboll UK.

The impact of COVID-19 on the UK’s construction industry cannot be understated. While every sector has been affected by the coronavirus pandemic, construction firms were hit particularly hard – development sites were temporarily closed, with some projects even facing the prospect of being cancelled outright. Now, it looks as though things are slowly getting back to normal. However, the challenge we now face is ensuring the long-term recovery of the economy by supporting UK businesses, says Paul Howells, CEO of Accumulate Capital.

MAD Architects, led by Ma Yansong, has revealed its masterplan and architectural design for the Shenzhen Bay Culture Park. The ambitious cultural complex covers an approximate area of 51,000m2, with a total building area of ​​182,000m2, and includes the creative design hall, the Shenzhen Science and Technology Museum, with an expansive public green space along the waterfront in Shenzhen, China. It is expected to be completed in 2023.

In the midst of a newly designed building ensemble boasting bright facades and ultra-modern workspaces, the German architecture practice, 3deluxe, has created a visionary plaza that is a celebration of contemporary mobility. Cyclists and scooters cruise along organically curved levels, between them; oases of tranquillity, water features, cafes and restaurants.

This month, FC&A talks to Tean Chee Ko, Design Director of Hong Kong studio RMJM Red Studio, to find out more about his career, design ethos and upcoming projects.

In a new podcast series, world-leading sustainable flooring manufacturer Interface will explore exactly what it means to design with climate in mind. Hosted by Jon Khoo, Interface’s Regional Sustainability Manager, each episode will feature an in-depth, informative conversation with a range of leading figures from the worlds of design, sustainability and the built environment.

Liquid applied waterproofing is becoming an increasingly popular flat-roofing solution for building owners, designers and contractors offering, as it does, a wide choice of high-performance system solutions for a host of requirements and applications. Suitable for roofing refurbishment, repair, new build, complex and inverted roofs; new formulations have enhanced its appeal over alternative bonded or torch-on systems, says Simon Ashworth, Product Manager – Liquids & Synthetics at BMI UK & Ireland.

James Stephens, Managing Director of Offsite Solutions, looks at how bathroom and utility pods are helping contractors in the coronavirus pandemic.

Professionals involved in the planning, design and ongoing management of public spaces and streetscapes must consider and address a number of factors when looking at site security and safety. Here, Mark Lester of Hörmann UK, explores the key issues and the solutions available to help mitigate against potential terrorist threats, without altering the overall landscape.

Dean Weston from Commodore Design offers advice on how you can create kitchens that meet the growing demand for healthier living.