Latest News

The latest news, features, comment and analysis of the UK housebuilding market covering policy, regulation, planning, technology, new developments and products

Steaming up

May 1, 2005

Luxury bathrooms incorporating features such as whirlpool baths and showers that double as steam rooms can give you a real edge over competitors. Tim Palmer reports on how bathrooms are increasingly marketed on the "wellbeing" factor

Selling sizzle

May 1, 2005

The kitchen is a key selling point of any new home so attention to detail is essential, as is sometimes spending extra to specify the best. Andrew Leech talks to suppliers about the latest design trends and the extras that will add a "super-wow" factor

Inside information

May 1, 2005

[MMC-IMG=1513-A=Right] Dawn Kitchener, founder and director of interiors specialist Connections in Design, offers some insights into the latest trends and why housebuilders are increasingly recognising the importance of a well designed show home

Do your homework

May 1, 2005

Designing show home and new home interiors is a sophisticated business and a key pillar of any marketing strategy. Andrew Leech talks to housebuilders and their design consultants about what customers want and why they are offering interiors packages

Welcome home

May 1, 2005

[MMC-IMG=1510-A=Right] Bev Weston, sales and marketing director at David Wilson Homes, explains why a high quality show home and interior design package combined with friendly, well informed sales staff are critical success factors in exceeding customers'

Hearts of stone

May 1, 2005

Increasing consumer expectations and competitiveness in the new homes market is driving design innovation in paving and landscaping. Chris Windle looks into the latest products, including decking and SUDS systems

Don't sweat it

May 1, 2005

The temperature is rising for home insulation standards, but Andrew Leech finds that the industry is not fazed by the implications of further changes to Part L of the Building Regulations

Getting plasterboard

May 1, 2005

Housebuilders are currently focused on increasing efficiency and build speed, while meeting increasing Building Regulation insulation standards. Tim Palmer finds plasterboard manufacturers are innovating with this aim

Cracking the code

May 1, 2005

[MMC-IMG=1501-A=Left] At Fairfield Park in Bedfordshire the local authority has used design codes to ensure homes being built by Twigden and other developers will complement surrounding Victorian architecture. Steve Menary reports on the impressive result

Current thinking

May 1, 2005

Deregulation in the gas and water sectors has been going on for some time, but it has yet to infiltrate the electricity sector. John Batty explains why opening up utilities provision to competition and multi-utility providers will benefit housebuilders by