Smart technologies should be simple and intuitive, and used to build citizen-centric cities. Liza Young reports from a CIBSE Homes for the Future Group debate
Category: General
Above and beyond – innovation in building photovoltaics
As the 2020 ‘nearly zero’ energy buildings target approaches, Liza Young explores Swansea University’s pioneering research into building-integrated photovoltaics, as well as its unique ways of storing heat for use all year round
Cost model: High-end apartment fit-out
A new series of cost models by Aecom begins with an indepth look at the costs of building services in high-end apartment blocks – this make up a considerable part of the central London construction market
Engineers cut lose as ropeless lifts enter space race
A revolutionary elevator that uses magnetic levitation to move horizontally and vertically is set to transform the design of tall buildings. Alex Smith reports on the technology
Facts of LiFi – using light waves to carry data
Using light waves to carry data has the potential to transform the telecommunications industry. Professor Harald Haas, who coined the term LiFi, examines the technology and outlines its implications for LED lighting and broadband communication
Secure in the knowledge – CIBSE conference highlights
Security and innovation were two of the key themes at the CIBSE Building Performance Conference and Exhibition. Alex Smith and Liza Young report on the highlights of the 2015 event and pick out the issues and technologies most likely to transform the building services industry in the next few years
Falling into place – what we have learned about ESOS ahead of December deadline
With only days until the deadline for the first phase of the Energy Savings Opportunity Scheme, Liza Young finds out the challenges for businesses on the road to certification
Giant strides – Cisco and Johnson Controls merge BMS and IT
Technology giants Johnson Controls and Cisco have merged the BMS and IT technologies at a Cisco HQ in the UK on a single platform, and are generating savings of £120,000 per building per year. Alex Smith reports
Building Performance Awards 2016 shortlists
Four new project categories in the 2016 Building Performance Awards have attracted a wide range of exemplar case studies, making the judges’ job even tougher this year. Alex Smith had a ringside seat at the shortlisting session to find out which entries made the final round
Hall of fame – Liverpool’s St George’s Hall
Neil Sturrock, from CIBSE Heritage Group, explains why Liverpool’s St George’s Hall was the first air-conditioned building