In order to create the best possible buildings, individuals and organisations often turn to architecture firms. By utilising professional architectural design services, people can help to ensure that their finished constructions meet their expectations.
Demand for such services may be particularly high at present in the UK. According to the latest UK Cities Crane Survey conducted by Deloitte Real Estate, there has been an increase in regional construction activity. The firm suggested that projects involving office buildings, residential constructions and student housing are all on the rise.
It recorded an increase of 80 per cent in the number of new schemes starting construction over the last 12 months compared with the previous year across five major city centres, namely Birmingham, Manchester, Leeds, Edinburgh and Glasgow.
Deloitte claimed that commercial office market is on the cusp of a new development cycle, with 11 new office construction starts underway across the cities. This is the highest number recorded in five years and is set to deliver 837,000 square feet of office space to the areas.
Meanwhile, ten new purpose-built student accommodation projects were underway. These will deliver 2,900 new bed spaces across the various regional hubs.
The survey also revealed that the number of city centre residential development units being built has increased twofold. Around 1,400 units are currently being built across three of the city centres.
Demand for architects and interior designers may be particularly strong in Manchester. This city was identified as the most active in construction terms. The two Scottish cities included in the study also performed well.
Commenting on the findings, head of research at Deloitte Real Estate Anthony Duggan said:
“Compared to the less than positive story last year, our regional research now illustrates a rise in development activity, matching the recent improvement in the UK economy. We have recorded construction increases in office space and student accommodation as demand for both continues to rise. Similarly city centre residential is beginning to appear back on the agenda with a number of schemes breaking ground.”
The expert added: “The thrust of development activity this year sits with Manchester, Edinburgh and Glasgow, but the results are generally good news across the board with four out of five cities showing an increase in new starts compared to just one city in 2012.”
He went on to suggest that sentiment is returning, in part thanks to government backed initiatives.
Mr Duggan also stated that he does not believe the increase in construction will be a one-off. He noted that residential demand is improving and there are supply shortages in a number of commercial property sectors. In conclusion, the specialist predicted that the UK will see more development activity over the next 12 months.
It is vital that firms and individuals involved in construction projects select suitable providers of architectural design services. After all, building schemes require a considerable amount of expenditure, so it is crucial that the results are spot on. Luckily, it is now easy for people to access the necessary services.
About the Author – Anna Longdin is a freelance blogger who has written extensively on the subject of property for a variety of sites, including The Manser Practice.