The courtyard is essentially an open outdoor area which is surrounded and enclosed by walls or a building. In residential properties they provide peaceful, protected spaces where people can enjoy the outdoors in privacy; they can also serve as communal spaces for people who live in apartment buildings and housing complexes, offering a space where communities can come together. When used in commercial and public buildings, they can be used as a space to hold meetings and events. They also provide ventilation and allow natural light to permeate around an entire building, creating an open, bright and airy atmosphere. Continue reading →

When it comes to devising plans for a new build, the acoustics are one of the most important factors to consider. The exact approach to acoustics will depend on the individual use and intention of the property; for example, concert halls and entertainment venues have to be specially designed and constructed to ensure high quality acoustics. When it comes to designing residential properties, the same principle applies. Continue reading →

The property market in London went through some major changes in 2015 with the introduction of changes to stamp duty and prices continuing to rise. The situation has limited the options for some property owners who would typically be looking to move up the ladder and purchase homes with more space. People are now increasingly likely to invest in expanding and improving their home rather than moving. This creates some fantastic opportunities for architects in the capital, giving them the chance to create solutions for a wide array of different settings and criteria. Continue reading →