Tag: buildings
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‘The supply chain for smart buildings will look very different’
In the second of our client interview series, Cardiff Met’s Graham Lewis tells Will Mann how data analysis is helping tackle the university’s twin challenges of cutting carbon and operational costs. Like much of the higher education (HE) sector, Cardiff Metropolitan University is facing strong financial headwinds. For Graham Lewis, chief officer for university environments and…
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MEP Cost Insights for Contractors in Commercial Buildings
In commercial construction, mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) systems are one of the most complex yet crucial aspects of project planning. These three systems form the basis of any modern building, offering functionality, energy efficiency, and compliance with industry standards. For contractors, an accurate MEP cost reduction is vital to avoid budget overruns, secure competitive…
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Breakthrough ‘plastic’ mortar could slash heat loss in buildings by 55%
A groundbreaking new mortar mix developed by scientists from Newcastle University could transform how homes are built. By swapping out traditional sand for recycled plastic and high-tech aerogels, researchers have created a lighter, eco insulation material that reduces heat loss by up to 55%. This innovation could mean lower energy bills, less plastic waste and…
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Electrical Upgrades for Commercial Buildings: The Benefits
Nowadays, commercial buildings must be equipped with modern electrical systems to meet increasing power demands and ensure safety. Electrical upgrades can provide significant benefits, from enhanced energy efficiency to improved safety and compliance with regulations. Whether you own an office complex, retail space, or industrial facility, investing in electrical improvements is a strategic decision that…
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How Steel Commercial Buildings Reduce Insurance Costs
In today’s competitive business landscape, every penny counts. One often overlooked area for potential savings is commercial insurance. While it’s a necessary expense, there are ways to mitigate those costs, and choosing the right building material plays a significant role. Steel commercial buildings offer a compelling case for lower insurance premiums thanks to a combination…
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Boston expands net-zero emissions requirements to new buildings, large additions
Listen to the article 3 min This audio is auto-generated. Please let us know if you have feedback. The Boston Zoning Commission has approved an amendment to the city’s zoning code that requires most large new buildings to have net-zero carbon emissions from the day they open, according to a release Thursday from Boston Mayor…
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We’re Using 20th Century Tools to Design 21st Century Buildings
“I refuse to accept this status quo. I cannot accept a future where we can hail self-driving cars, unlock buildings with facial recognition, or book flights using AI-powered software. Yet, architects and engineers must rely on software designed in the 1990s as they craft cutting-edge structures.” That’s a quote from a recent blog post by…
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Former farm buildings offer conversion opportunity but buyers warned about overage clause
An opportunity has arisen for potential buyers looking to invest in a piece of Dorset’s countryside. The former High Lea Farm buildings, located in Witchampton near Wimborne, are now up for sale via online auction with a guide price starting at £600,000. However, prospective buyers should proceed with caution as an overage clause attached to…
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NAO: ‘Few credible contractors’ for public buildings maintenance
Property professionals have told the National Audit Office that there are “few credible contractors” for some types of government building maintenance. A shortage of contractors is one of the concerns the NAO highlights in a new report on the government’s £49bn maintenance backlog across the public estate. The public spending watchdog is calling on the…
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Trump orders GSA to advance ‘beautiful’ federal buildings
Listen to the article 3 min This audio is auto-generated. Please let us know if you have feedback. On his first day, President Donald Trump signed a flurry of executive orders to immediately carry out his agenda. Many — such as ending birthright citizenship — were greeted with mixed reactions, including pushback and legal challenges,…