Features

Nestled in a Spanish hillside surrounded by stunning vineyards, Eneko Atxa’s Azurmendi Restaurant is far from your run-of-the-mill eatery.

Here Simon Crowhen, National Sales Manager at Topcon GB, looks at the challenges facing the construction industry and the latest technologies which can help the industry to work smarter.

When the Natural History Museum decided to replace its famous ‘Dippy’ the diplodocus exhibit with a new star exhibit – a real-life skeleton of a blue whale – design and engineering expertise from Lancashire provided a solution to balance all the elements.

As a specialist in the highest specification fit-out joinery, Brown & Carroll is often the last in a long line of contractors to participate in bringing construction projects to a successful conclusion. Being a finishing trade puts Brown & Carroll in the hot seat for completion on time – and the company hasn’t missed a deadline for more than a quarter of a century.

When refurbishing commercial interiors, it is important to consider what shapes will suit the personalities of those utilising the space. This is where the concept of semiotics and the art of interpreting different shapes and symbols is key, as David Bigland, Managing Director for Moduleo UK and Eire, explains.

As the demand for high-specification office washrooms has increased, so too has the specification of materials which are not traditionally associated with washrooms. While creating a unique design is important, it should not compromise on practicality. Trevor Bowers, Director at washroom designer and manufacturer, Washroom Washroom, explains how, by careful selection of materials and considered bespoke design features, it’s possible to create a washroom that delivers the perfect balance of form and function without compromise.

The Murray, Hong Kong – a Niccolo Hotel – has unveiled its new design by Foster + Partners, a global studio for architecture, urbanism and design. Set to redefine the luxury hospitality scene when it opens in January, the iconic landmark will be transformed into an international luxury hotel. The practice has been responsible for the restoration and renewal of the emblematic building – including its interiors, creating a unique destination for Hong Kong.

With the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) just around the corner, businesses must be proactive in preparing for the new regulation, which comes into effect next May, says Paula Tighe, Information Governance Director at UK-leading law firm Wright Hassall.

Here, Steve Cookson at Sika Liquid Plastics, discusses diversity of liquid roofing membranes on the market and highlights the importance of selecting the right system with high levels of technical support built in.

In recent years, timber has attracted widespread attention from across the built environment. Structural timber, in particular, has become a common choice for both in-situ construction and off-site construction solutions, writes Martin Hurn, Managing Director of Futurebuild Events – owner of ecobuild.