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The UK is facing a critical housing shortage, with the government pledging to build 1.5 million new homes to meet demand. However, this ambition is coupled with the urgent need to decarbonise the construction industry, a sector traditionally associated with a significant carbon footprint. In a groundbreaking R&D project, FP McCann, a leading UK manufacturer of precast concrete solutions, is tackling this challenge head-on by developing scalable production of graphene-enhanced

A community-led charity has recently refreshed the entrance and hallway of their community hub, thanks to Bradite’s most popular coating, One Can. This all-in-one primer, stain block and professional finish was tinted in two bold shades from the NCS colour range to create a joyful and welcoming first impression. Originally built in 1889 to serve the community’s needs, The Gregson Community and Arts Centre in Lancaster is committed to carrying on this legacy through their café

Building on its well-founded reputation as a manufacturer of cladding support systems and high-performance fasteners, SFS Group Fastening Technology has developed an advance, user-friendly new fastening system for installing flat panels across both steel and aluminium sub-frames. Amongst the benefits of the patented Center Point System is the fact that it answers the challenge of accurately positioning the self-drilling, double thread fastener at the exact centre of the hole

Is the classic shaker kitchen still the nation’s favourite, or are customers beginning to look beyond this enduring design? Long admired for its simplicity, versatility and timeless appeal, the shaker door has dominated British kitchens for decades – but bolder design choices and growing interest in contemporary finishes are starting to reshape the market. Head of Life Trade, Paul Berryman, discusses this classic style and explores how today’s preferences are changing and wha

With Havwoods For many years, contemporary interiors were dominated by smooth surfaces and minimalist finishes. Today, designers are moving towards a more tactile aesthetic to introduce character and depth to spaces. From fluted wall panels and slatted partitions to brushed timber flooring and sculptural veneers, texture is rapidly becoming one of the defining elements of modern interior design. This shift reflects a growing desire for spaces that feel warmer, layered and mor

Warm, versatile and timeless, wood continues to be a key influence in interior design, and Tile of Spain’s latest launches demonstrate that its evolution within ceramic surfaces is more refined than ever. Nordik Wood Pearl Tiles by AB (Azulejos Benadresa) ( www.azulejosbenadresa.com ) From textured wood-effect finishes to warming, neutral colour palettes, the new collections from Tile of Spain’s manufacturers highlight how wood-effect tiles, paired with soft, neutral palette

Every year, design, technology and lifestyle shifts transform the way people experience and interact with their kitchens. Leading distributor of kitchen and bedroom components, PWS, highlights its top 3 influences shaping kitchens in 2026 from the popularity of wood cabinetry to timeless taupe. A nod to nature with oak Offering unparalleled quality, durability and beauty, last year saw a surge in popularity for natural wood-drenched kitchens. Providing quiet luxury and soph

Philip Chambers, SFS UK's Business Development Manager (Modern Methods of Construction), explains how the company's support and solutions help strengthen offsite construction and drive down carbon. The UK construction sector is undergoing a significant transformation as the industry seeks faster project delivery, improved quality, and reduced environmental impact. Modern Methods of Construction (MMC), and particularly offsite construction, are increasingly recognised as key t

Natural stone has been used in building and construction for thousands of years, but it was in the eighteenth century – when classically inspired country houses rose in popularity – that it became the preferred material of choice for the building industry. Can cast stone be considered a viable alternative? Katherine Kates, Production Director at Haddonstone , discusses the main differences between the two types of stone and tells us why cast stone can be a cost-effective alte

James Hardie Europe today announces the official opening of its most advanced fermacell ® fibre gypsum manufacturing line in Orejo, marking a major milestone in the company’s European growth strategy. With a total investment of over €150 million, this is one of the most significant production expansions in the company’s history. The new facility will strengthen James Hardie’s ability to supply the entire European market with high quality fermacell ™ flooring and fermacell ™