Specification CPD from RIBA-approved Providers

This seminar will provide a design rationale for creating a functional accessible kitchen. Different kitchen layouts will be explored and 'Best Practice' will demonstrate how flexible solutions can promote independence and benefit kitchens that need to accommodate multiple users with differing needs.  

An introduction on using steel and brass windows and doors in high end luxury residential and commercial projects. This CPD will cover:How to provide clients with aesthetic solutions of the highest order and deliver superior product performance.Key considerations when using steel and brass.The importance of product testing prior to installing custom fenestration in these uber projects.The sustainability of steel windows and doors.5 real world case studies, all presenting different challenges for the designers, clients and contractors who were involved.

This technical CPD module introduces key fire safety considerations for ventilated rainscreen façade systems. It covers the core principles of rainscreen design from ventilation and drainage fundamentals to building subdivision and compartmentation. The seminar emphasises the importance of effective passive fire protection measures, detailing barrier locations and types suitable for various applications, alongside relevant fire test standards.It outlines the appropriate test paths to compliance in the UK, referencing regulations, statutory requirements, and the Building Safety Act. The CPD also explores the value of third-party certification, with examples covering product performance, environmental credentials, and industry schemes.Finally, it highlights best practice approaches throughout the design and construction stages, contributing to the Golden Thread of information. These include interface detailing, training, installer competency, site inspections, and record keeping. The CPD reinforces the critical role of competence, accountability, and traceability in achieving safe and compliant rainscreen applications.

This presentation offers Architects and specifiers a comprehensive overview of tile installation best practices aligned with British Standards. We will explore the common causes of tiling failures and how to prevent them through informed substrate selection and assessment of service conditions, including the need for waterproofing. Key topics include understanding different substrate types, the impact of underfloor heating on tile performance, sustainability and the critical choice of adhesives and grouts. Finally, we will cover the importance of movement joints in maintaining tile integrity and durability, ensuring long-lasting, high-quality finishes in architectural projects.

The presentation looks at the principles behind designing systems that make use of screeds. Primarily this looks at underfloor heating and acoustics in buildings, with a very brief look at three other interesting construction products that make use of screeds.The outline is:Under floor heatingHow heat worksHow screeds work with underfloor heating systemsDesign of UFH SystemsAcoustics in buildingsHow sound travels in buildingsThe requirementsCritical points of detailingInteresting possibilitiesProfiled steel decksPIPC PlanksPumped insulationEnvironmental considerations

An Architect's Guide to Navigating Classifications Within Architectural Ironmongery. We have a detailed overview of who working with classification numbers within the field of Architectural Ironmongery, specifiers can understand why certain products may not be the same. Understanding details like this are vital when preparing specifications, and we believe this will help many practises understand the value of a product and help produce documents that offer better sustainable solutions.A like for like product needs to be investigated in more detail and we hope that this presentation will help practises understand our world in more detail.

The seminar provides a comprehensive overview of Solar PV technology, its applications, and best practices for installation and maintenance. It covers key industry trends, including the growth of the UK solar market, energy security, and decarbonisation efforts. The presentation discusses different solar panel types, shading considerations, inverter options, and battery storage solutions for optimising solar energy use. It also highlights building regulations, fire safety concerns, and mounting solutions for solar installations. Additionally, it touches on financial aspects such as Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs), investor interest, and grid integration challenges, showcasing solar energy’s role in achieving net-zero carbon goals and its increasing economic viability.

Delegates will learn how to maximise the sustainability benefits of cold liquid applied waterproofing membranes, with a view to enhancing the sustainability criteria of waterproofing projects. The content will equip specifiers with essential knowledge and strategies on how to influence sustainability initiatives in flat roofing specification. By the end of this CPD, delegate will: Gain insights to the capabilities of cold liquid applied flat roofing membranes and their use within a wide range of applications, including warm roofs, green roofs, and solar PV solutions. Gain an understanding of the key sustainability metrics which influence or can be influenced by flat roofing specifications, for example climate mitigation, climate adaption and making the most of finite resources. Learn how to improve the sustainability performance of buildings and roofs through the specification and use of cold liquid applied waterproofing solutions.  Develop improved awareness around key matters associated with fire, flat roofs, and green roofs. Gain confidence in how to correctly specify cold liquid applied flat roofing systems that fulfil sustainability targets and meet regulations.  

This CPD seminar looks at the different types of pedestal systems, and what you need to consider when specifying external raised flooring for balconies, roof terraces, podiums and walkways. It will also cover different types of outdoor spaces, including some key terminology to be aware of.We’ll explore not only how to achieve the aesthetics and functionality of the raised external flooring that you’re specifying, but also how to make safe and compliant choices, as well as environmentally conscious ones. Topics covered include fire safety, wind uplift, as well as falls, levels and ramps.By the end of the CPD, you will:- Have a better understanding of the solutions for external raised flooring in terms of pedestals and their associated accessories.- Have more confidence in your external flooring specifications, through an increased understanding of terminology, what you might need to consider, as well as safety and compliance topics.

This CPD session focuses on equipping professionals with the knowledge and strategies required to meet cycle parking standards and design efficiently. The session covers the key principles of planning, designing, and implementing cycle parking solutions that are spatially efficient, user-friendly, and compliant with regulatory standards.

This CPD explores how minimalist design, as more than an aesthetic choice, can, when approached with technical precision, improve wellbeing, sensory comfort, and human connection through intentional design. Through a blend of theory, technical insight, and real-world case studies, we’ll discuss how minimalist glazing, and architectural systems can improve daylight access, visual connection, thermal comfort, and spatial clarity. The session connects academic research with practical application, providing architects with tools to create spaces that are not just efficient, but also meaningful, inclusive, and restorative.Participants will gain a deeper understanding of:How minimal design supports psychological and sensory wellbeingPerformance considerations for minimalist glazing systems (including U-values, thermal bridging, and view quality)Standards and guidelines influencing minimal glazing design (LEED, WELL, BREEAM, CIBSE)Case studies demonstrating solutions for comfort, sustainability, and accessibility.Duration: 60 minutes (including Q&A)

Attendees of the Luxury Washroom Design CPD will gain valuable insights into specifying washrooms for high-end environments. This seminar covers the essentials of flush-fronted cubicle design, including features like rebated lipping, premium materials and their manufacturing, hinge systems, and wall fixings. Attendees will explore the range of vanity materials available in the market, along with considerations for design and application to meet the standards of luxury.In addition, attendees will gain comprehensive insights into superloo and mirrorbox layouts, including their design, functionality and specific technical details to ensure informed, confident and precise specification decisions when integrating these elements into luxury washroom designs. Attendees will also receive an update on Approved Document M and Approved Document T, ensuring compliance with current regulations that promote accessibility and inclusivity. Environmental considerations will be addressed, including FSC certification and water usage, critical for sustainable luxury washroom design.This CPD promises to deliver a thorough, expertly led exploration of key factors to consider when specifying washrooms for luxury environments.

This webinar explores advanced flooring solutions designed to meet the evolving challenges of modern construction. From industrial and commercial spaces to specialized applications, we will discuss key performance factors, systems innovations, and best practices for achieving durable, high-quality flooring systems. Join us to discover how to optimize flooring performance, safety, and longevity.The Key Learning Objectives are:Identify and describe various flooring solutions, including their key features, benefits, and typical applications.Evaluate flooring options based on critical selection factors such as durability, cost-effectiveness, and aesthetic appeal.Understanding how these selection factors contribute to the value of residential, commercial, and industrial spaces.Understand and outline the four main stages of flooring installation.Recognize relevant industry standards and their importance in flooring specification and installation.This CPD is available online or in person.

This presentation discusses the many ways solid hardwood floors can provide technical, performance and sustainable solutions for heritage retrofit and refurb projects. It details the most common scenarios a specifier might encounter and what is needed before installing new floors in old buildings.The CPD covers how selecting a durable material with a long lifespan and low embodied carbon will have a positive impact on the building’s whole life carbon assessment and in turn the environment, how the choice of flooring impacts the building’s historical integrity, and its adaptation to a more sustainable operation system.

Movement within a building is a common factor that needs to be considered when specifying tiled finishes. This movement can be attributed to changes in moisture content of some of the construction materials; deformation and deflection within the structure as it accommodates the weight of materials being supported; and changes in temperature, both atmospheric and from other factors such as under-tile heating. Failure to select background materials, methods of construction and work schedules which minimise the effects of this movement will compromise the tiled finishes and result in failures such as cracked tiles and tiles becoming loose and eventually debonding.Additionally, consideration must be given at the design stage to providing adequate sound proofing from adjacent buildings and reducing sound transmission within the home.In this CPD we will be looking at the contribution that under-tile membranes, boards and drainage have in addressing these factors by exploring:Common substrates.Under-tile membranes which accommodate background movement and enable fast-track tiling.Waterproofing under-tile membranes and boards.Membranes for under-tile heating cables.Soundproofing membranes.Installation methods.Relevant standards and building regulations.We will also be looking at a few case studies to support the information presented.

The Porcelanosa Group factory allows guests to get a complete insight into the ceramic industry; the objectives would be for the client to have a full understanding of the product and technical capabilities when it comes to specification.The tour aims to educate the specifier on all aspects of ceramic and porcelain tile production, right from sourcing of raw materials, design, production process all the way through to the technical standards required for both manufacturing and end user alike, You will get to see and experience first-hand, how a natural mineral is manipulated and manufactured to be one of the most used products within the construction industry.The key learning points will be as follows, Brief history of ceramic industry. Sourcing and preparation of raw material.Processing of materials to a “tile” like status. Decoration and design of materials.Firing (kilning of materials).Finishing of material. Eco considerations within the ceramic industry to ensure sustainability.Technical qualities and considerations.How material is distributed globally.