Cost model – gyms and spas central London

In this cost model covering mechanical, electrical and public health services, Aecom’s Andrew Freeman and Garry Burdett examine the capital costs of the fit-out of a gym and spa in central London

Missing the mark – why schools are failing on energy performance

A RIBA review of school performance revealed an industry-wide struggle with delivering new buildings that operate well. Lisa Pasquale MCIBSE of Six Cylinder explains why adherence to design codes is causing high levels of complexity in controls and services, resulting in significant inefficiencies

On a mission: using data to optimise heat networks

Gareth Jones and Casey Cole are using big data to expose the real performance of domestic heat networks. Alex Smith finds out how their disrupter technology could see the industry adopting a Passivhaus-style target approach

Enough is enough – Ecobuild coverage

This year’s Ecobuild conference had plenty to inspire delegates – from electric vehicles powering homes to 3D printing on Mars – but the most important debates were over building performance and how the industry could organise itself to improve its buildings