A fare deal

Multidisciplinary practice Burks Green has invested in high-quality building materials in areas visible to bus passengers, while saving money in areas hidden from view. The result is a landmark transport hub with a crisply detailed aluminium roof that wouldn't look out of place on a first-class departure lounge. Not to be outdone, D5 Architects in Birmingham has come up with a stunning roof at North East Worcestershire College in Redditch. It went beyond the client's brief to bridge two buildings with a 20 m glazed canopy that has provided locals with a rain-free public plaza. Also this month, we track the rising cost of metal roofing on page 13, and Scott Brownrigg identifies the potential pitfalls of specifying slate in Checklist.