The incorporation of colour into the built environment has always been integral to the design process and inspiration is often provided by the local context, in terms of either architecture or landscape.

But how can you be sure to choose the right colour?

What are the psychological effects of colour and how can you apply colour effectively in the urban realm?

In recent years, the bold use of colour has swept through the built architectural world to profound and dramatic effect, represented by the diverse sectors that have adopted this trend to great success.

As much as these colourful statements provide eye-catching fodder for the architectural press, just what lies behind this contemporary, and increasingly significant, movement?

And can it be replicated in other landscape elements?

Our Spanish street furniture partner, Escofet, is proudly sponsoring the European Prize for Urban Public Space. It is an innovative prize that truly recognises the impact of good landscape design on the people that matter - the citizens.

Priority is honourably given to architecture with a social vocation rather than to that with an aesthetic or spectacular accent.

This article shows previous winners featuring our products.

Is there any point in taking a long-term view of signage, wayfinding & legibility strategy anymore?

Given the increasing affordability, function and adoption of smart phones, it could be said that the humble street sign is no longer a pertinent solution.

It’s hard not to agree with the above, but the future is actually much more clouded with uncertainty and is less definitive. This article discusses how signage must adapt to continue to add value in our public realm.

Local Government News and Woodhouse held a roundtable event to share ideas on enhancing the public realm through signage and information provision. This article discusses the findings from the discussion along with the challenges local authorities faced and some guidance from fellow public sector professionals in achieving an urban realm that "works" for everyone.

A commentary on current trends in urban regeneration, design, materials and the impact of the CSR. This article was originally published in Building Products - June 2010