Opinion – Page 100
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CommentEnergy use: It's harvest time
Batteries could be used as a vital way of upgrading our energy system by storing power for when we really need it
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CommentHansom: Points of view
It’s all about how you look at things, with a well-lit Chinese bridge, obscured views of the Thames, people who like ‘funny’ builders, and a consultant entering the classroom. Plus, an architecture legend’s old motor is up for sale
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CommentGoing back to nature
Biophilic design can have a significant positive impact on occupier wellbeing, but to adequately measure these impacts there must be close links between design and post-occupancy
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CommentWhatever happened to the brief?
There has been a gradual erosion in the understanding of the briefing process within the construction sector over the last 30 years - a vital skillset when working with the complex nature of modern assets
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CommentBrexit: Time to be heard
The construction industry’s voice needs to be part of the discussion on Brexit. We must set out our stall on three key areas to ensure the well-being of both the sector and the wider UK economy
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CommentA lightbulb moment
PFI may not have the best reputation but it is very important that government sorts out a steady flow of schemes and hones its structure
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CommentCPA/Barbour ABI Index: How long will it last?
As growth slows, it is uncertain how long activity on the ground will stay at high levels
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CommentAlarm bells ringing
Construction activity has shrunk in the second quarter as the uncertain environment has taken hold
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CommentHansom: Something in the drink
An insurance company has made getting builders a decent brew a priority, a Scottish island welcomes a new distillery for its national spirit and homeowners get a bit carried away describing their ideal homes
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CommentSix ways masterplanning can improve our lives
Masterplanning is much more than predicting infrastructure issues before they arise - a well-designed development framework can have a significant impact on people’s lives
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CommentThe long shadow
Ten years ago the credit crunch took us all unawares. But is our industry any better equipped today to respond to the deep economic currents that affect our markets?
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CommentHow housebuilding could transform local communities for the better
Housebuilders need to create communities rather than just developments by studying how to add social value
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CommentWhy networking in our industry is wonderfully different
Face-to-face networking in construction is important and enjoyable
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CommentCyber security: When will we stop dragging our feet?
UK construction should continue to set the bar for BIM practices, but it must ensure customers’ information is in safe hands
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CommentHousing association frameworks: One size doesn’t fit all
For big housing associations, one framework, open to all contractors and consultants, is not specific enough to meet demand
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CommentWhy we must transform
Construction must change its ways. The government may at last be listening to our concerns, but if the sector does not innovate and attract a new breed of young workers, then it is in serious trouble
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CommentConstruction's fortunes: A sea change
Construction’s growth slowdown brings concerns about infrastructure project delays and low margins into sharp focus – and highlights the need for a change of mindset
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CommentHansom: Slightly unexpected
An accountant has an unusual selling point, the staff at the Cheesegrater are more healthy than the name of the building suggests and there’s a little bit of love for everyone at the new Postal Museum
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CommentBuilding alliances
The NEC alliance contract offers two major departures from the PPC2000 approach - one very bold and one relatively timid
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CommentThe blame game
The government has used the recent leaseholder scandal to blame the industry for the ‘broken’ housing market. In fact, it’s just covering up its own lack of action when it should be working with housebuilders to find ways of fixing the problem