SPOTLIGHT HOPES FOR 2024
when confronted by factors beyond your control. Which is exactly what Steve Sullivan of Totalglaze Windows Ltd in Kent has shown. The cost-of-living crisis, coupled with rising prices – and falling demand – of conservatories forced Sullivan to make changes to his business offering. “I was grasping at straws to find a replacement for the revenue my directors have been losing over the past few years,” Sullivan says. “If we are not selling conservatories, we need a replacement. So I contacted a few of my suppliers, did my research and came up with a plan.” The company decided to launch a new extension kit to run alongside its conservatory offering, extending existing conservatory bases at a much cheaper cost than solid brick built extensions. Now, Sullivan has forged a relationship with PCL Building Products Limited to supply his extension kits across the South East. The kits use structural insulated panels (SIPs) that are connected with a unique jointing system for walls and roofs and fabricated from sustainable timber sources. They use less timber than typical timber frames so
they’re economical and eco-friendly, as well as being strong and energy efficient, Sullivan explains. “We are hoping that it will support us and increase our revenue where we have lost out by not selling our bigger- ticket items,” Sullivan says. He is hopeful that the market will rebound in the year ahead and his sales will go up. Future focus Speaking broadly about the industry rather than her own business, MacCuish wants to see a more coherent “risk- based approach to Building Standards oversight”. She notes: “Significant collaborative work is required between principal contractors, engineers, architects and Scottish Ministers on the current Building Regulation Standards and how these are regulated, measured and evidenced.” By applying a risk-based approach to the oversight process and the enforcement of building standard rules and regulations, MacCuish says the industry would benefit from “a more robust approach” to assessing that domestic and commercial buildings are meeting high standards.
Steve Sullivan of Totalglaze Windows Ltd
As we move into a new year, members reflect on the past 12 months and share their plans for the future of their businesses and the wider industry LOOKING AHEAD
Y ou can’t have every project of the year being a highlight, but for Sam MacCuish, Managing Director of Lilium Homes Ltd in Glasgow, one in particular stands out. “In 2023 we completed a beautiful traditional sandstone and slate mews build in Glasgow West Conservation Area,” she says. “This building now sits proudly amongst a number of Grade A listed buildings dating back to around 1850. The project required considerable ground works due to historic mining issues affecting properties within the West End of Glasgow.
Off the back of a successful year, MacCuish is eager to grow her business in 2024, with plans to expand her team and double the business’ resources to meet the increasing demand. But she’s also especially excited about an upcoming project. “In 2024, we have the opportunity to be engaged as principal contractors on a very special new build project. This involves creating an ultra-modern, environmentally- conscious, accessible home. So watch this space!” Being successful at business requires mastery of many variables and an attitude of innovation and adaptation
Sam MacCuish with her team from Lilium Homes Ltd
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Master Builder
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