Our services
Detailed design
Our core service is to provide full detailed designs. This would typically involve being appointed at RIBA stage C and developing design proposals from the client'sbrief through to production of construction information. We carry out all our own calculations, design and CAD drawings in house. We also offer site inspection of the contract works, to ensure our system designs are fully realized.
We have experience of working with sub contractors on design & build contracts. Often, this involved a reduced level of service to that described above e.g. the contractor my elect to produce final coordinated construction information themselves.
Performance specifications
We have extensive experience in the production of performance specifications. Typically this involves taking the client's brief and creating a set of employers requirement that precisely defines the performance requirements of the building. This can involve going into considerable detail in the form of drawings and plant schedules. This route is an increasingly preferred procurement method which gives the client greater cost certainty.
Condition surveys
Often the first stage of a refurbishment project is to establish the condition of the building as a whole. We can survey the existing systems in the building and produce a report describing their condition, life span, replacement cost and future maintenance liabilities. In the context of a proposed refurbishment we can make recommendations as to which systems should be retained, repaired or replaced.
Feasibility studies
Feasibility studies are often required to establish what is practicable and the most practical way of achieving it. For example, a client may want their office building to be air conditioned. We can carry out a survey of the building, advise if it is possible e.g. plant space, service voids, etc. If the yes, then we can propose practical solutions e.g. local system vs. central plant etc.
Building performance analysis
Often buildings do not perform to their optimum, caused by poor quality installations, poor control or poor management. We can survey the systems of the building and collect performance data and advice how they perform against established parameters. We can then advice on possible remedial works or replacement along side life cycle cost analysis.
Sustainability
An overused word perhaps, but an important one in the context of building services design. In practical terms, we always ensure that are systems we design are as energy efficient as the possible within the confines of the project. We will always consider low or zero forms of energy e.g. photovoltaic panels, ground source heat, etc. Where specific sustainability criteria are applied to a project we have the expertise in house or via our industry partners to deliver compliant designs.
If the project has to meet a particular Code for Sustainable Homes level or BREEAM rating, we can provide the necessary advice and recommend a qualified assessor to carry out the required assessment.