Industry News

Five hot new future living models

Sep 28, 2017

What will the homes of the future look like? We’ve already seen the sharing economy explode in Australia, thanks to GoGet, Airbnb and Open Shed, but given our population is tipped to double in the next 50 years, who’s pushing the boundaries of the way we live tomorrow? Here are five of the best doing it right now:

Are traditional trades set in stone?

Sep 6, 2017

Cuts to TAFE over the past five years have left Australia with a nation-wide apprentice shortage that is particularly affecting traditional trades, such as stone masonry. Building Connections’ Adelle King reports.

Case Study: UQ Global Change Institute

Sep 4, 2017

When you’re looking to create a building dedicated to affecting global change, it’s what’s on the outside that is almost as important as what is inside. So when the University of Queensland set about transforming their Global Change Institute, market leader EBSA was on hand to provide function facades that also offer a unique design perspective.

The advantages of an all-in-one estimating system

Sep 1, 2017

In today’s construction environment competitiveness is key, and to keep your business on top, you need to make sure you have the best tools available. This should include a fully integrated estimating solution, such as CostX®, which supports BIM & 2D takeoff, integrated workbooks and a customisable report writer, among other features. Check out our top four reasons below why you should upgrade now to an all-in-one solution:

Single-Fronted Terraces – pushing the envelope

Aug 28, 2017

Single-fronted Victorian terraces have strong street appeal. Their wrought iron verandahs and often hawthorn brickwork have instant charm. Many of these homes are found in inner-city areas, such as Albert Park, Melbourne. And as the price of these dwellings head north, architects transfer these abodes into slick contemporary townhouses. Stephen Crafti came across two similar Victorian terraces, both in Albert Park. While the width of the frontages is comparable, the results between the two are quite different.

Pro9 insulated building panels

Aug 15, 2017

Pro9’s revolutionary building system is leading the world in modular construction for energy efficient buildings. Pro9’s structural insulated panels are prefabricated for fast and affordable installation across residential, commercial and industrial projects.

Art Nouveau – a new interpretation

Aug 10, 2017

In the 1990s, 1950s modernism made a return thanks largely to magazines such as Wallpaper*. The Eames chaise and matching ottoman was a pivotal design, as was furniture designed by George Nelson. While there were a few enthusiasts spouting the clean modernist charm of that period, the 1950s didn’t become mainstream until the early noughties. Fast-forward to the present and there’s everything from 1970s through to the early 1980s, when Memphis made a return.

Open House Melbourne – 10 years of being nosy

Aug 9, 2017

It’s now been 10 years since Open House Melbourne first threw open its doors to a delighted, design curious city. In 2017’s anniversary edition, Annie Reid discovers how regeneration can keep changing a city for the better.

Colour – elevating the senses

Aug 8, 2017

Colour can transform the most corporate of buildings into something quite magical. However, whether it’s used on walls, for carpets or furniture, there’s always a need to provide a sense of balance. In some instances, colour provides a sense of drama or even tells a story and forms an integral part of the design process.

Courtyard Gardens – as relevant today

Aug 4, 2017

Courtyard-style gardens are not a new phenomenon. Architects such as the eminent Guilford Bell regularly included courtyards in his homes designed in the 1950s through to the 1980s. Often concealed behind high brick fences, these private and secluded oases were inspired by the architect’s travels to the Middle East. Other architects, equally as respected as Bell, such as Kevin Borland, also used courtyards in their schemes. Find out what lies behind the walls in modern courtyard transformations.