Architectural Ventilation Systems: MVHR and Its Alternatives - An Introduction If you’ve ever woken up to find condensation running down your bedroom windows or struggled to dry clothes indoors, leaving behind a damp, musty smell, it’s likely due to inadequate...

Introduction to Biophilia in Architecture Biophilia, a term that has become increasingly synonymous with architectural design in recent years, traces its roots back to ancient Greek, where it means ‘love of life’ or ‘love of living things.’ The term was popularised by...

Designing for Neurodivergence: Principles for Supporting Dementia in the Built Environment As the general demographic in the United Kingdom ages, there is a growing demand to approach the fundamental design of spaces with the needs of the elderly in mind. This is...

Introduction Sheep’s wool is becoming a popular insulation material in the construction industry. This natural fibre is grown by sheep and is called the fleece of sheep. It covers most of their body helping them accommodate well to differing weather conditions. This...

Roundup of the Year 2024 As the year draws to a close, it's time to reflect on the standout moments that shaped the past 12 months. This year has been one of creativity and growth for the First in Architecture team. Thank you for being on this journey with us! We are...

Introduction ‘God is in the details’ is a famous expression associated with German American architect Ludwig Mies van der Rohe (1886-1969). Although its origins are vague, it has become a fitting way to convey the importance of thoughtfulness and precision in...

Where to Find Construction Details on the Web Good resources and precedents for construction details can be hard to find. You can spend hours trawling through google looking for detail inspiration but never quite find what you are looking for. The internet provides a...

Designing for Neurodivergence: Principles for Supporting ADHD and Autism in the Built Environment In today's interconnected world, it has become clear that success requires inclusivity for everyone—regardless of ethnicity, gender, or neurodiversity. Creating inclusive...

What is Hemp? Hemp is a natural material derived from the Cannabis sativa plant. Much like flax and jute, hemp is a ‘bast fibre’, meaning it comes from the inner bark or stem of the plant. It has diverse applications, from nutrition to construction, and can be...

Introduction The Five Points of Architecture reflect a popular manifesto by one of the most influential architects of the 20th century, Le Corbusier (1887-1965). These five principles played a pivotal role in shaping modern architectural theory and practice. Have you...