As the high streets and shopping centres of the United Kingdom face unprecedented change, the insight of industry leaders like Scott Dylan, the co-founder of Inc & Co, becomes invaluable. In a world where the very fabric of consumer interaction is constantly being redesigned, Dylan’s anticipation of retail trends propels forward-thinking businesses towards a transformative horizon. With a focus on evolving retail spaces, his perspective sheds light on the changes in retail commercial property, urging stakeholders to embrace adaptability and customer-focused innovation.

Grasping the essence of current consumer expectations, Dylan charts a course for the retail industry that harmonises digital commerce with the tangible allure of brick-and-mortar stores. This synergy fosters environments where traditional retail strategies intertwine with a tech-driven approach, invigorating the marketplace and inspiring businesses to scale new heights. Those who succeed in anticipating retail trends will not only endure but thrive, crafting spaces that resonate with modernity and timeless appeal alike.

Tracing the Transformation of Retail Spaces

The retail industry has undergone a remarkable metamorphosis, tracking the footprints of its storied heritage to today’s bold advance into the digital age. Pioneers such as John D. Rockefeller and Thomas Edison pioneered the groundwork for what has become a bustling labyrinth of evolving retail spaces. These magnates set the parameters that are still pivotal to the designs and business methods that characterise the contemporary retail landscape.

Christianity has always been renowned for its historical evolution, from the simple market stalls that festooned the thoroughfares of ancient civilizations to the elaborate emporiums that symbolize modern commerce. Today, digital transformation has married the time-honoured practice of trade with the convenience and reach of the digital realm, sparking a new wave of economic development with far-reaching implications for the future of the retail industry.

In this relentless pursuit of progress, we have seen how traditional retail has been compelled to evolve with agility and creativity, reinventing itself in response to the inexorable march of technology. With the advent of advanced digital technologies, retail spaces have transcended physical limitations, allowing entrepreneurs to interact with customers on a global scale, hence redefining the essence of consumer experience.

Scott Dylan details this narrative transition from physical marketplaces to the digital storefronts of today. Through his lens, we recognise the ever-growing symbiosis of technology and entrepreneurship, a partnership that continues to drive the evolution of retail spaces.

This journey of retail space transformation is not simply a trend but an echo of human progression, where the essence of innovation has been and continues to be the primary catalyst for change. It is a journey that looks toward a future where the once clear lines between physical and virtual shopping experiences are increasingly blurred, reflecting the changing fabric of consumer expectations and the retail industry at large.

Adaptive Retail Environments and Customer-Centric Design

Scott Dylan’s vision for the retail sector epitomises the concept of adaptive retail environments, engineered around the core principles of customer-centric design. This future-forward approach to retail space development focuses on creating a seamless and engaging consumer experience. Informed by an in-depth understanding of the customer’s evolving preferences, these designs are nimble, ready to transform alongside ever-changing consumer behaviour and market trends.

Transforming retail architecture under Dylan’s guidance acknowledges the necessity for retail spaces to function as interactive shopping experiences. This dynamic allows consumers to move beyond the traditional transactions of yesteryear and step into a world where their journey is enhanced by real-world curation, interactivity, and specialised services tailored to their unique demands.

In response to challenges such as those posed by the pandemic, there is a clear imperative for retail to not just innovate but outpace the pressing demands of the era. Dylan envisions spaces that can pivot with agility, offering immersive and engaging experiences that resonate on a local and global scale.

Indeed, the potential to reconfigure retail spaces into more agile, responsive, and locally attuned environments, especially in light of the Covid-19 crisis in 2020, has never been more apparent. It can be seen as an opportunity to rejuvenate the commercial landscape, where the very essence of interactions is attuned to the narrative of individuality and personalised service.

The culmination of these efforts leads to retail locations that not only meet but anticipate customer desires, fostering an atmosphere of community and connection—essentials in the quest to maintain relevance in an increasingly digitalised world. Therefore, the future of retail lies in its ability to adapt—continuously and creatively—to the ebb and flow of consumer desires and the pulse of technological innovation.

Evolving Retail Spaces: Integrating Emerging Technology

In the present day, emerging retail technology stands at the forefront of the metamorphosis within retail spaces, ingeniously charting the course of the industry. Scott Dylan, a seasoned digital entrepreneur, harnesses the transformative power of this technology, melding it with the consummate skill of a maestro, to redefine consumer engagement. His expertise in implementing digital tools and predictive analytics positions him as an oracle within the retail revolution.

The utilisation of artificial intelligence and big data analytics has become progressively ubiquitous, signifying a trend that is reshaping the retail experience. These tools enable a level of personalisation hitherto unfathomable, offering consumers the same individuated treatment online as they would receive in the personal space of a high-street shop.

Through a digital-first strategy, retail spaces are evolving beyond mere points of purchase into vibrant hubs of innovation and interaction. Technological integration not only streamlines the shopping process but also equips retailers with the essential insights that guide astute business decisions. This paradigm shift, underpinned by the vision of digital entrepreneurs, is leading to an era where retail spaces cease to be static, transitioning instead into dynamic ecosystems that thrive on adaptability and customer-centric experiences.

At the vanguard of this movement, Dylan articulates a future where technology serves as both a catalyst and conduit for retail’s evolution, unwavering in his belief that enriching the consumer journey with technological finesse is the quintessence of modern retail.

The burgeoning realm of retail technology thus transcends mere transactional exchanges, invoking an immersive world that entices the senses and invites participation. As retail ventures throughout the United Kingdom brace for a digitalised future, the imperative for integration of cutting-edge tools in the ever-changing retail landscape has never been clearer.

The Impact of Digitalisation on Brick-and-Mortar Stores

The realm of retail is witnessing a seismic shift as the digitalisation impact reverberates through the very foundations of physical brick-and-mortar stores. Scott Dylan, renowned for his keen insights on digital enterprise transformation, observes a profound redefinition in retail structures, precipitated by the ascent of online business models. This paradigmatic transition is not so much a substitution as it is a strategic augmentation and integration of digital capabilities with traditional commerce.

Revolutionised by digital frameworks, retail spaces have acquired a newfound agility, enabling rapid scaling and expansion across global markets. E-commerce startups and digital emporiums now serve as exemplars of adaptability, showcasing the versatility and resilience required to navigate the currents of online business growth. Yet, whilst digitalisation presents unmatched opportunities for expansion, it concurrently poses the challenge of remaining pertinent in an economy that is increasingly digital-first.

Scott Dylan accentuates the criticality of innovation within the retail sector, emphasising that maintaining relevance in today’s digitised economy necessitates a continuous commitment to adapt and evolve. It is this driving force for innovation that could spell the future survival and success of retail establishments the world over.

The consumer landscape has become one where expectations are as transient as the technology that shapes them. Dylan’s perspective foregrounds the importance of businesses embracing digital enterprise transformation to meet and exceed these shifting consumer expectations. It is an endeavour that requires a complex tapestry of solutions, including interactive online interfaces, responsive supply chain mechanisms, and data-driven decision-making processes ingrained into the operations of brick-and-mortar entities.

In summation, digitalisation’s impact, not unlike a double-edged sword, empowers and challenges the conventional brick-and-mortar stores. To thrive amidst the dynamism of digitalisation, Scott Dylan suggests that a fusion of innovation and agility must be at the heart of any retail business strategy — a beacon guiding the transformation of retail spaces in this relentlessly evolving digital epoch.

Scott Dylan’s Insight on Future Retail Industry Trends

Focusing on future retail industry trends, Scott Dylan recognises the crucial role of innovative thinking and nurturing an innovation culture in the sustainability and success of retail businesses. In an ever-changing landscape, the scalability and adaptability of operations are what separate thriving entities from those that stagnate. According to Dylan, central to a retail business’s scalability is the integration of an innovation-led approach that informs and transforms every aspect of the organisation’s strategy and execution.

With the UK’s retail industry at a crossroads, Dylan’s insights suggest that successful enterprises will be those that view scalability not as an end goal but as a continuous process rooted in innovation. This includes fostering a culture where ideas bloom from all hierarchies within the organisation, constituting a democratic approach to innovation that empowers and encourages each member of the workforce to contribute to the business’s growth.

Dylan advocates, “The future of retail requires a crucible of collaborative thought; an environment that not only accepts change but thrives on it. Embracing an open exchange of ideas is imperative and must become part of the very DNA of a retail organisation.”

It is Dylan’s belief that scalability must be underpinned by a strong foundation in forward-thinking and innovative practices. This ethos, he notes, results in groundbreaking product developments and transformative processes that redefine the customer experience. By adopting a democratic approach to business management, small businesses, in particular, stand to gain a competitive edge, propelling them toward profitable scalability and robust market presence.

In a dynamic marketplace, the retail businesses that can acclimate to fluctuating consumer demands, while contributing innovatively to their sector, are the ones that will define the future trend of retail. Therefore, embedding an innovation culture as the cornerstone of business strategy, as highlighted by Dylan’s philosophy, becomes essential for retailers aiming to scale and succeed in the unfolding narrative of the UK’s retail industry.

Evolving Consumer Trends and Their Impact on Retail

The retail landscape is currently undergoing a significant transition, influenced by the evolving consumer behaviour that is shaping the industry’s future. Observing these changes, industry experts like Scott Dylan emphasise the necessity for retailers to reassess their strategies to align with the emerging consumer trends impacting consumer preferences. Innovative store layouts and an increased focus on local enterprise are key elements in this new retail paradigm. Retailers who seek to thrive in this environment are required to not just respond to but to anticipate these shifts in behaviour.

Retailers face the challenge of creating spaces that blend the comfort and familiarity of traditional shopping experiences with the convenience and innovation inherent in digital offerings. Scott Dylan underscores the growing expectation among consumers for more than just transactional exchanges — they demand personalised, enriching encounters whenever they enter a retail space. To meet this need, the concept of curated experiences within retail settings has come to the forefront.

Furthermore, the impact of changing workplace dynamics — with more individuals spending increased time in local areas — presents a defining opportunity for retail spaces. There is a burgeoning demand for shops that capture the essence of the community, offering specialised services and products that reflect local culture and needs. As the high street reinforces its position as a cornerstone of daily life, the local enterprise is poised to offer an authentic connection to the rhythm of the neighbourhood it serves.

The implications for retailers are clear. As consumer behaviour continues its inexorable evolution, the retail sector must adapt by cultivating environments that are innovative, responsive, and grounded in community ethos. This proactive approach ensures that retail spaces remain at the cutting edge of consumer trends, offering engaging experiences that resonate with customers’ shifting values and expectations.

The integration of innovative store designs with local enterprise sensibilities stands as the fulcrum upon which the future of retail pivots. Embracing such consumer trends does not merely create opportunities for retail growth; it future-proofs businesses against the rapidly changing tides of consumer demand and maintains their relevance in an increasingly competitive and digitised marketplace.

The Role of Sustainability in Retail Commercial Property Development

In an era marked by mounting environmental concerns and consumer-centric imperatives, sustainability in retail has burgeoned into a cornerstone principle for businesses and developers alike. Visionary leaders like Scott Dylan are cognisant of the trajectory that commercial property development must take to cater to these evolving needs. As society grapples with the urgency of a climate-changing reality, there is an unmistakable shift towards spaces reflective of not only economic viability but also steadfast ecological integrity.

These progressive overlays in retail strategies are embodied in the growing trend towards consumer-conscious retail consumption, where shoppers are increasingly allying with brands that prioritise sustainability. The physical environments where such transactions take place are also under scrutiny. Retail commercial property development is undergoing a profound metamorphosis, spearheaded by the imperative to marry commerce with sustainability. This encompasses the development of mixed-use strategy spaces, which integrate retail alongside communal and social amenities, crafting a rich tableau of human-centric urban spaces.

Proponents of sustainable development such as Dylan advocate for an all-encompassing, sustainable strategy which ensures that retail environments do not just exist in harmony with their surroundings but reinforce the principles of renewable energy resources, waste minimisation, and eco-friendly design practices. It is this holistic and inclusive approach that is predicted to define the future of retail spaces, rendering them resilient in the face of both market transitions and environmental exigencies. Retailers and property developers must, therefore, embrace this paradigm, forging ahead to create commercial spaces that resonate with the ethos of sustainability at their core.

Festive events are being staged by North Yorkshire Council to ensure care leavers and fostering families embrace the Christmas spirit and ensure the valuable work they are involved in is recognised.

In a display of unity, two groups of fostering families gathered at the Crown Spa Hotel in Scarborough and the Royal Hall in Harrogate, where children in foster care, alongside their dedicated foster carers and foster siblings, came together to create a special rendition of Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer.

Both performances will be broadcast on local radio stations on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, helping to raise awareness about the essential role of foster carers.

The initiative is part of a broader campaign to address the increasing demand for foster carers in 2024. The aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic has seen a rise in the number of children entering care, coupled with a decline in available carers. To meet the pressing needs of local children in the coming year,

Fostering North Yorkshire – North Yorkshire Council’s fostering service – is calling for new recruits to come forward.

In addition to the festive performances, care leavers gathered for Christmas dinners in Scarborough, Selby, Northallerton, and Harrogate. Despite a halt to the festivities in 2020, these dinners have become a cherished seasonal tradition, providing an opportunity for care leavers to come together, share a meal and celebrate the holiday season.

North Yorkshire Council’s executive member for children and families, Cllr Janet Sanderson, said: “This is the time of year when we really need to be supporting our children and young people in care and those who have just left care.

“Not everyone has a family who can be with them at Christmas, so we are urging anyone who is thinking about becoming a foster carer to sign up now.

“We would also like to offer a sincere thank you to the Crown Spa Hotel and the Royal Hall for supporting our young foster children. They had a special time singing in a festive venue and are delighted to know that they will be on the radio.”

Jayne Dockerty, a dedicated foster carer from Scarborough since 2021, added: “It was such a lovely experience to see the children singing their hearts out.

“We really need people from all walks of life to become foster carers – the more life experience you have, the better.”

Meanwhile, almost all young people attended the care leavers lunch in Northallerton, with a few of them travelling from outside of North Yorkshire to join in the celebrations.

Reflecting on the experience, one care leaver said: “I get a lot out of spending time with other care leavers.”

Another care leaver added: “I enjoy these so much – they’ve become part of my Christmas now.”

North Yorkshire Council’s corporate director of children and young people’s service, Stuart Carlton, said: “Our care leavers have also had a brilliant time with a great atmosphere. We offer key support throughout the year, but at Christmas time it’s vital to show our young people they are not alone and that our support is always on hand.”

Fostering North Yorkshire is offering a £500 golden hello to all newly approved foster carers between now and December 31. There are a range of opportunities for anyone interested in fostering, including short break fostering or planned regular sleepovers which provide options for adults who work full-time.

Foster carers receive full training and support to help turn young lives around. There are also tax-free payments and allowances for every night a carer fosters.

More information is available at www.northyorks.gov.uk/fostering-north-yorkshire or by calling 01609 534654 to speak to a member of the team.

A new multi-million leisure complex in Knaresborough will open up opportunities for the local community to bring health and fitness into their everyday lives, leading figures have said.

The £17.5 million health and wellness centre officially opens to the public on Monday next week (December 11), bringing state-of-the-art swimming and fitness provision to the market town. The centre includes a six-lane 25-metre pool, a leisure pool with flume, a 60-station fitness suite, a studio for group fitness classes, a bespoke group cycling studio, sauna and steam rooms, a café and an outdoor children’s play area.

And the new building will be more efficient than the former one – the carbon output of the previous leisure centre has been reduced by more than 60 per cent. The gas boiler was replaced with sustainably efficient air source heat pumps and solar panels installed to provide a source of renewable energy. Alongside LED lighting, upgraded building management systems and improved electrical supplies will increase energy efficiency.

North Yorkshire Council’s executive member for culture and leisure, Cllr Simon Myers, said: “By moving the service offer from being a conventional swimming pool to a community health and wellbeing service we aim to help people move more, live well, feel great and reduce the proportion of the population that is physically inactive.

“We look forward to welcoming the public into the facility next week.”

North Yorkshire Council’s strategic development partner, Alliance Leisure, has been tasked with the construction of the building and installing the environmentally friendly measures.

The director of Alliance Leisure, James Foley, said: “The UK’s stock of ageing and inefficient leisure facilities makes a significant contribution to carbon emissions, so it’s encouraging to be collaborating with ambitious local authorities like North Yorkshire Council to decarbonise important assets like Knaresborough.

“It will a create clean and energy efficient leisure centre to help meet the nation’s net zero targets, and in the long-term will also result in considerable operational savings. Good news for the council’s net zero targets, good news for residents and ultimately, good news for the planet.”

He said the investment has also seen multiple benefits and social value brought back to the community, with more than 60 per cent of the project’s works spent within the local supply chain, targeted training opportunities, and more than 150 weeks using apprentices on the Knaresborough scheme.

The chief executive of North Yorkshire Sports, David Watson, whose charity promotes active lifestyles in the county, said: “I am delighted to see this fantastic new facility open in Knaresborough that will serve as a huge asset to the local community.

“Thirty-three years after the first pool was built in the town, this new facility retains the spirit of the original, with a pool and flume, but also adds much needed activity space with the new studios and fitness suite.

“Being active is an essential part of living a healthy life and having access to a range of opportunities, including facilities such as this, makes it easier for people to build physical activity into their daily lives.”

All the centres are managed day-to-day by Brimhams Active, the council’s health and wellbeing company. 

Its chief executive, Mark Tweedie, said: “At Brimhams Active we have a simple vision – to ensure everyone in our community can lead an active, healthy, and happy life.

“The creation of this new leisure and wellness centre provides a modern, safe space where all walks of life, at every stage of life’s journey, can come together and enjoy a range of activities from swimming, gym and group exercise, to eating and relaxing. The investment really does deliver something for everyone. I’m now looking forward to working with my team to bring these facilities to life.”

The centre has been developed next to the old Knaresborough Pool, which was built in 1990 and last refurbished 20 years ago.

The Mayor of Knaresborough and North Yorkshire Council’s member for the Knaresborough East division, Cllr Hannah Gostlow, said: “I am delighted to see the new centre ready for the public – it is a great asset for the community and opens up new opportunities for them to enjoy.”

And her colleague, the member for Knaresborough West division, Cllr Matt Walker, added:

“We now have one of the most energy efficient centres in our market town which will help us achieve our carbon neutral goals while at the same time increasing the leisure offer to our residents and visitors.”

More information on the centre including opening times, memberships, services and the classes available is available on the Brimhams Active website at https://www.brimhamsactive.co.uk 

Mayfair is without a doubt one of the most attractive destinations for those who plan on visiting London in the near future. While known for its opulence as well as its rich historical background, there are several other reasons why this district is considered to be one of the most attractive staycation options. After all, it is still the most expensive street on UK Monopoly board games. Why has Mayfair garnered such rave reviews over the years and why should this location be included within any upcoming itinerary? 

Tourist Attractions Galore

Mayfair has certainly made it a point to cater to the needs of tourists. This can be seen in the many well-known attractions interspersed throughout its confines. Some examples include the Handel House Museum, Wellington Arch and Ripley’s Believe it or Not. In the same respect, we should point out that Mayfair is also home to a plethora of high-end retail shops. The good news is that these all tend to be located in close proximity to one another. So, make it a point to browse the stores found along Bond Street, Regent Street, and Mount Street. You will not be disappointed. 

Practicality and Convenience

Those who plan on travelling to London for the first time will often choose Mayfair dur to its rather practical location. Found only 1.6 miles from the city centre, there are plenty of public transportation options available. This makes it easy to visit many other boroughs without being forced to commute long distances. Access to high-quality serviced apartments in Mayfair is yet another advantage for those who are hoping to take advantage of the latest amenities alongside second-to-none levels of customer service. After all, why leave anything to chance during your upcoming staycation? 

A Time for Leisure

Mayfair is often touted as one of the most luxurious sections of greater London, and for good reason. While this is indeed true, it should be pointed out that this district is also home to a kaleidoscope of open-air parks. This is ideal for those who plan on travelling with the entire family or for anyone who simply wishes to enjoy a day outdoors free of metropolitan congestion. Consider these well-known parks when planning your next itinerary: 

• Hyde Park 

• Kensington Gardens 

• Coram’s Fields 

• Regents Park and Primrose Hill 

• Princess Diana Memorial Playground (great for children and adults alike) 

• The Children’s Zoo at Battersea Park 

These locations are open throughout the year and they represent excellent ways to enjoy a bit of downtime or to soak up the sun (weather permitting, of course). 

Mayfair continues to represent an extremely desirable tourist destination and thanks to a host of accommodation options, it has never been easier to enjoy all that this location has in store. As always, we encourage you to perform additional online research to discover all of the wonders that await. You will not be let down!

A well-designed hotel room can make all the difference in creating a memorable and comfortable guest experience. Hoteliers understand that a thoughtful and inviting space can leave a lasting impression on guests, encouraging them to return in the future and recommend the establishment to others. Hertfordshire Hotel Brand Manor of Groves look into the key elements and tips for designing the perfect hotel room that meets the needs and expectations of modern travelers.

1. Space Planning and Layout

Effective space planning is the foundation of a well-designed hotel room. A well-organized layout ensures that the room feels spacious, functional, and clutter-free. Consider the flow of movement within the room and ensure that furniture is arranged to maximize space and provide easy access to essential amenities. Adequate storage solutions, such as built-in wardrobes or drawers, help keep belongings neatly organized and out of sight.

2. Comfortable Bedding and Linens

The quality of the bedding and linens can significantly impact a guest’s sleep quality and overall satisfaction. Invest in high-quality mattresses, pillows, and bed linens that provide optimal comfort and support. Crisp, clean, and soft linens not only enhance the sleeping experience but also create a sense of luxury and indulgence for guests.

3. Thoughtful Lighting Design

Lighting plays a crucial role in setting the mood and ambiance of the hotel room. Incorporate a combination of ambient, task, and accent lighting to create a versatile and well-lit space. Dimmable lights allow guests to adjust the lighting according to their preferences and needs. Additionally, consider incorporating bedside reading lights and convenient switches for easy control.

4. Functional and Stylish Furniture

Choose furniture that is not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional and comfortable. Opt for durable materials and timeless designs that withstand wear and tear while maintaining a contemporary appeal. Multi-functional furniture, such as a desk that doubles as a vanity or a sofa bed for extra sleeping space, can add versatility to the room.

5. Aesthetic and Cohesive Design

Maintaining a consistent and cohesive design throughout the hotel room creates a sense of harmony and elegance. Choose a color palette and theme that reflects the hotel’s overall branding and style. Thoughtful use of textures, patterns, and artwork can add visual interest and personality to the space.

6. Ample Storage and Amenities

Ensure that the hotel room offers ample storage space and essential amenities for guests’ convenience. In addition to standard amenities like a mini-fridge, safe, and coffee maker, consider providing thoughtful extras such as USB charging ports, in-room entertainment options, and a well-stocked minibar.

7. Privacy and Soundproofing

Privacy and soundproofing are essential factors in creating a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere for guests. Choose window treatments that offer both privacy and blackout capabilities. Incorporate sound-absorbing materials, such as carpets and drapes, to minimize noise from the outside and adjacent rooms.

8. Modern Technology Integration

Embrace modern technology to enhance the guest experience. Integrate smart features like keyless entry systems, in-room tablets for guest services, and high-speed Wi-Fi. These tech-savvy amenities cater to the needs of tech-oriented travelers and elevate the overall level of convenience and comfort.

9. Luxurious Bathroom Design

The bathroom is another crucial area where guests seek comfort and luxury. Invest in high-quality fixtures, spacious showers or bathtubs, and luxurious toiletries to create a spa-like experience. Fresh towels, ample storage space, and well-placed mirrors add to the functionality and aesthetics of the bathroom.

10. Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Design

Emphasize sustainable and eco-friendly design principles in the hotel room. Choose eco-conscious materials, energy-efficient lighting, and water-saving fixtures to reduce the hotel’s environmental impact. Guests increasingly appreciate and value environmentally responsible practices, which can enhance the hotel’s reputation and attract eco-conscious travelers.

In conclusion, designing the perfect hotel room requires a careful balance of aesthetics, functionality, and comfort. Paying attention to space planning, comfortable bedding, lighting design, functional furniture, and cohesive aesthetics can create an inviting and memorable guest experience. Incorporating modern technology, sustainable practices, and thoughtful amenities further elevate the hotel room’s appeal and cater to the needs of today’s discerning travelers.

RESIDENT FACILITIES AT BERKELEY’S LUMINA : The last year has placed a higher importance on health and wellbeing, resulting in a new found love for keeping fit, exercising, and enjoying the outdoors. As these new lifestyle choices take priority, leading a healthier way of life is set to continue indefinitely[1]. For house-hunters looking for a home to accommodate their new lifestyle, Berkeley’s brand-new Camberley development Lumina has recently unveiled a selection of exclusive resident facilities, designed to improve residents’ wellbeing and keep their fitness goals on track. From a private gym offering the ideal space to continue exercising, to a fantastic shared garden perfect for enjoying the sights and sounds of the scenic Surrey location – buyers will find they have everything they need for an all-inclusive lifestyle all just moments from home.

Situated in the centre of Camberley conveniently placed just across the road from Camberley Train Station, Lumina comprises a luxury collection of Manhattan, one and two bedroom apartments. Alongside the unrivalled specification inside each apartment, residents will be able to make the most of a selection of outstanding communal features too. Perfect for residents continuing to work from home, a state-of-the-art business lounge is located on the ground floor and offers soft seating, desks, WiFi and meeting areas for the modern-day flexible worker. On the mezzanine floor, a fully-equipped fitness suite will help residents enjoy a healthy pastime, whilst upstairs a luxurious private cinema room is exclusively for residents, where they can relax with friends and family watching a film on the big screen.

Ben Annetts, Sales and Marketing Director at Berkeley Homes Southern, comments: “We are thrilled to officially open the residents’ facilities at Lumina – all of which have been designed to support new life choices, and ensure our residents’ lives are made as seamless as possible. These facilities ensure Lumina is the ultimate place to live, work and play; you can work out in the fitness suite before setting up the work laptop in the exclusive business lounge, and then cosy up to watch a film in the private screening room in the evening. This, coupled with the convenience of the train station and town centre on the doorstep, makes the development the ideal place for busy professionals to call home.”

In addition to the indoor communal facilities, residents will have exclusive access to a private garden complete with benches and landscaping, which offers 360-degree views of the scenic Surrey surroundings.

Each apartment at Lumina has been exclusively designed for the modern-day homeowner. Open-plan living/dining areas share the space with a fully-fitted kitchen complete with first-class NEFF integrated appliances including fridge/freezer, dishwasher and compact oven with microwave function. Deluxe master bedrooms come complete with fitted wardrobes and contemporary en-suites with walk-in shower. Bathrooms have also been stylishly designed with bespoke mirrored cabinetry, feature lighting and vanity units. Two bedroom apartments enjoy spacious second bedrooms, with some benefitting from separate dining and utility rooms.

Every design element has been thoughtfully planned at Lumina, to ensure an hassle-free lifestyles for residents. Each apartment has access to secondary storage space on the same floor, providing a perfect solution for storing bulky items and hiding away clutter. On the second floor, a private parking deck provides secure allocated parking and electric car charging points, and is accessed via automatic registration plate recognition, for extra peace of mind.

Situated in the middle of Camberley’s vibrant town centre, residents at Lumina are just a short walk away from all the action. Alongside the high street, the two main shopping centres – The Atrium and The Square – boast a host of high street names and coffee shops, as well as a TenPin bowling alley, Vue cinema, and PureGym.  Across the town there is a diverse choice of eateries from every cultural background, from Mexican flavours at Chiquito to spicy Indian treats at the popular Mehdi, and traditional Sunday lunches at the Crown and Cushion pub.

Camberley is also home to a plethora of green space and stunning waterside walks, including three nature reserves – Wildmoor, Watchmoor and Barossa – all under a 15 minute drive from Lumina. Further afield, residents can relax at Pennyhill Park and Spa, set in over 123 acres of countryside with a three-hole golf course and tennis courts as well as eight indoor pools, hot tubs and a health spa. For something a bit less extravagant, Swinley Forest stretches over 2,600 acres and is perfect for walking, horse riding and cycling, whilst residents can enjoy waterside strolls or hire a pedalo along the Basingstoke Canal.

For commuting, Lumina residents could not be better placed. From Camberley Station, direct trains to London Waterloo take 1 hour 13 minutes, or from nearby Farnborough Station trains take as little as 35 minutes. Alternatively, residents can easily jump on direct trains to locations such as Ascot (12 minutes), Guildford (48 minutes), Basingstoke (1 hour 20 minutes) or Southampton (1 hour 40 minutes).

 Prices at Lumina start from £207,500 with Help to Buy available. For further information, please call 01276 817 113 or visit www.berkeleygroup.co.uk.

Property & Development Magazine

Whatriggs Primary School in Kilmarnock has received the Secured by Design Crime Prevention Standards. The Scottish school brings together two different schools on one site and has already been celebrated for achieving the high standards necessary in terms of the security of its layout and landscaping as well as its physical security.

In order to be given this certification, the Secured by Design trained Designing Out Crime Officers have been working with architects Keppie design, the Glasgow based company, and Morrison Construction which is a leading Scottish contractor. This team worked together from the initial planning stage of the building through to the final construction in order to ensure that as many proven crime prevention techniques are incorporated into the new campus as possible.

The design and construction teams met frequently throughout the development process in order to discuss features such as the layout of the school and its buildings in order to maximise the natural surveillance of the site, -perimeter defence and the use of lighting and CCTV in order to make sure that the optimum security levels were achieved. All of these different security features, plus many more, have been added while still creating a facility that remains welcoming and attractive for pupils and teachers to enjoy.

The windows and doors used at Whatriggs Primary School met the SBD’s Police Preferred Specification standard. The standard means that the windows and doors installed are sufficiently robust to resist a physical attack from any opportunistic burglars. This SBD scheme is the only way to gain Police accreditation for buildings in the UK. Morrison Construction appointed a number of SBD member companies to manufacture the doors and windows used throughout the development of the school. These companies include Metal Technology Limited and CMS Window Systems.

Whatriggs Campus brings together Bellfield and Kirkstyle Primary Schools and includes the featuring of an Early Education Centre and opened their doors for the first time at the start of the Autumn term.

Penketh Group, the bespoke office interiors company has announced that they have brought Frövi to their new Manchester WorkLife Showroom. The British Furniture company, Frövi are well -known for creating distinctive and colourful furniture that has been made with the highest level of craftsmanship and innovation. The name of the company has been inspired by Scandinavian design and the brand seeks to offer customers sleek and robust products that are suitable for the modern workplace. The company has recently showcased their work at Clerkenwell Design Week which took place in London.

A range of products that have been created by Frövi will be will be on show in the Penketh Group’s spectacular new Manchester WorkLife Showroom until the end of the year. The products will be on display on the eighth floor of Brentwood’s flagship NEO building located in the centre of Manchester.

One of the Designers for Penketh Group, Chris Birchall has said that they are delighted to display Frövi in the Group’s exclusive designer space. Penketh Group was established 40 years ago and works with a number of different clients across the country in order to create outstanding working environments that are able to engage and inspire people.

On display in the WorkLife Showroom will be the two-toned fabric Scandi Armchair, designed for a breakout space. Also on display will be the Ego Chair which will be available to purchase in 12 possible colour options perfect for a work café, with matching stools available. The Ilk Tilt & Footstool has an alternative to a work lounge chair, designed for people wanting privacy and down time. The Urban Sofa created by Frövi will also be on display, to inspire those wanting to bring a touch of home into the workplace. The Frövi bestseller, the Relic Poseur Table & Stool will also be on display, as well as the Laptop Table and the Jig Credenza, an innovative and interesting multi-purpose storage unit.

Sky Central has been named as the best workplace in the by the British Council for Offices, or BCO. The centerpiece of the Sky’s group headquarters in West London was designed by PLP Architecture, AL_A and Hassell. B&K Structures were also enlisted on to the project in order to offer their offsite solutions expertise.

Sky Central is the second phase of the development at the Sky Camps in Osterley, London. The mixed use development covers a total of 41,000 sq. m. and includes office space, studios and production facilities as well as research and development zones. B&K supplied and installed in excess of 7,500 linear meters of glulam beams as well as just under 16,000 sq. m. of large timber roof cassettes.

The Sky Central building has been created in order to bring together 3,500 of the television broadcaster’s workforce under the same roof. This scheme has managed to claim the Best Corporate Workplace in the UK Award as well as the overall Best of the Best workplace in the UK at the BCO’s national awards.

The judges for these awards were impressed by the different workspace neighbourhoods, 18 different areas with the capacity for 200 people in each. These areas were built around six cores and is evocative of the Bürolandschaft planning rules. The building was also designed with its commercial impact in mid as well as the health and wellbeing of the building’s occupants, which is becoming more and more of an essential part of a building design and specification. There has been a lot of focus on the construction of buildings that deliver pleasant surroundings, with the correct acoustics and humidity for a productive workspace. A better work environment has been associated to lower stress levels as well as a range of other benefits. It is great that a project which includes these considerations has been recognised by the BCO.

B&K Structures work to deliver award-winning optimised office solutions across the education, leisure, health, sport, commercial and retail sectors.

In order to celebrate their 20th Anniversary, LAR has undergone rebranding. The company was first founded in 1997 following a management buyout of Laing Asbestos Removal. This company was a part of John Laing Construction Ltd. Due to the buyout, a proportion of the directors and operational staff have more than 30 years of experience at the company. LAR works in the removal of asbestos and has safely carried out a range of projects across the UK, Europe and Africa with projects that have been valued up to £3.5 million.

LAR has spent the past two decades with the same branding and were looking for a change in order to mark this milestone in the company’s history. It was the intention of the company that the new brand better reflect the core values of the company, which are to deliver a high quality of service that is trusted and professional. The colours for used for the company’s branding will remain the same, but LAR have created a new logo and marketing materials have been changed. As part of this modernising exercise, LAR have also increased their online presence with the launch of a new website as well as social media pages.

Other celebrations have also taken place or been planned in order to celebrate twenty years of operation by the abatement specialists. A team from the company have already taken part in a charity bike ride. This event was also organised to coincide with ARCA charity week. The celebrations have continued with a corporate day at York Races. Finally, a team is scheduled to exhibit at Asbestos: The Truth Conference in November.

The company has also been recognised for their hard work, training and service with the ARCA Gold Training Award as well as the National Training Award and the ARCA Gold Site Audit Award. This is great news for the company, made even more prestigious as LAR are the only UK contractor to have won the ARCA Gold Site Audit Award for four consecutive years.