A new year; that old cliche of new beginnings, resolutions and, inevitably, change. However, 2019 does indeed mark a year of substantial, inescapable change for the nation; a move that will considerably alter the construction industry. With Brexit’s supposed divorce from the European Union just three months away, concerns surrounding exports, imports, immigration and job security are hard-hitting qualms for UK citizens. With so much ambivalence swarming the construction and architectural trades, such anxieties have left certain aspects of the realm in the darkness.

Sustainability is just one division that has been hiding in the shadows of late. With the EU leading the way with sustainability laws, it’s uncertain where sustainable development will stand in the future. FC&A talked to Michael Slater, Regional Operational Manager at Western Thermal, about the inclusivity of sustainability in proposed Brexit plans. Slater enlightens that the UK Government has stated that new environmental laws post-Brexit will secure the strength of current EU laws concerning sustainability and ensure they are “not weakened”. To read up on Slater’s full account on sustainability after Brexit, turn to page 26.

Pessimism and uncertainty over, the new year isn’t all doom and gloom! January marks a brand-new start to trade show season. Kicking us off for 2019, ARCHITECT@WORK returns this year with a new location to unveil the latest innovations and thought-leadership seminars for the architectural world. Taking place from 30th to 31st January at London’s Old Truman Brewery, this year’s show marks the seventh edition of the annual event. Turn to page 40 for a line-up of exhibitors and seminars. Meanwhile, on page 38, FC&A brings you a stellar programme for this year’s Surface Design Show. Returning to the Business Design Centre, 2019’s spotlight shines on the public realm and the workplace.

I hope you enjoy this edition. Don’t forget you can also access all of the magazine’s features, product news and supplier information at your fingertips via Future Constructor & Architect’s state-of-the-art app. To download your version free of charge, simply search ‘fc&a’ on Google Play or the App store.