04


contents september 2026 +hot topic


How to create developments that are both viable and genuinely deliverable


+roofi ng, cladding, insulation & structural systems


Why BBA certifi cation is an essential technical resource for insulation specifi cation


+heating, ventilation & damp proofi ng


Improving ventilation where traditional air conditioning systems are not an option


+kitchens, bathrooms & washrooms


A tactile evolution – texture and shower panels


+doors, windows, glazing & hardware


Why precision engineering matters in high-performance bi-fold doors


+interiors A new direction for lift design


+maintenance, refurb & heritage conservation 46 Can lessons learned from traditional building benefi t modern sustainable new-builds and renovations?


in the next issue


To view the current certifi cate visit www.abc.org.uk


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ABC&D (Architecture, Building, Contracting & Developing)


urban design & landscape architecture hotels, hospitality & sports facilities stairs, lifts, balconies & balustrades schools, colleges & universities fi re, safety & security fl oors, walls, ceilings & acoustics


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ISSN: 0966-9647 (Print) ISSN: 2978-6541(Online)


42 35 30 24


12 on the cover welcome... 18


Crittall Windows takes an in-depth look at the continued appeal of steel thanks to the material’s appearance, performance, durability and compliance qualities. Crittall’s W20 TE system off ers slender


profi les and achieves a U-value of 1.4 W/ m²K, giving architects greater fl exibility to meet current thermal standards without compromising on appearance. See page 39 for further details.


...to the September issue of ABC&D magazine...


This month’s project feature focuses on Heatherwick Studios and SPPARC’s phased transformation of London’s Olympia (P. 04). The venue is being carefully evolved into a new cultural destination which builds on its legacy as a showcase for creativity and innovation. Olympia is one of the capital’s most


remarkable and recognisable Victorian buildings – to retain this stature, the co-designers have created a new rooftop space beneath a striking glass canopy which, according to Thomas Heatherwick, “refl ects a quiet confi dence, showing that we can take extraordinary British heritage and adapt it with care, imagination and purpose for the future.” Michael Holloway provides


September’s Hot Topic (P. 12) examining how to create developments that are both viable and genuinely deliverable; Mike Vaczi explains why BBA certifi cation is much more than a marketing badge on P. 18; and on P. 24, Ian Thomas discusses decentralised ventilation for spaces where air handling units are not feasible. Mike Devanney explores the popularity


of textured shower panels on P. 30; Solarlux asks why precision engineering matters in high-performance bi-fold doors on P. 35; Donato Carparelli explains how a new generation of lift technology is putting the passenger back at the centre of vertical mobility on P. 42; and on P. 46, Niall Crosson makes the case for ‘Building Better’ and asks whether lessons can be learned from traditional building practices for sustainable new-builds and renovations.


...from all at ABC&D...


managing editor – claire.young@korumedia.co.uk (01527 407248) production manager – tracy.duff y@korumedia.co.uk national sales manager – davina.glover@korumedia.co.uk (01527 407249) circulation department – korucirculation@c-cms.com managing director – Martin Tingle


Although every eff ort is made to ensure the accuracy and reliability of material published in ABC&D, the publishers can accept no responsibility for the veracity of claims made by contributors, manufacturers or advertisers. Copyright for materials published in this magazine remains with the agents.


© Koru Media Limited 2026


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