Member Article

Niven Architects win top ranking for technology

EXPERTS have been lauded nationally as outstanding after pioneering a technological revolution that is transforming the construction industry.

Darlington-based Niven Architects have won the top ranking from the KTP Grading Panel, an awards body of the government-funded Technology Strategy Board.

The accolade is the culmination of two years’ work with Teesside University and major software investment by the North-East practice as part of a knowledge transfer partnership.

Director Simon Crowe said: “The KTP partnership helped us exchange information that allowed us to put theory into practice. We were able to test the technology in real life environments.

“The result is that our practice can bid for much bigger schemes. The award is a ringing endorsement of our hard work and commitment to BIM.”

Niven Architects have been at the forefront of Building Information Management on the back of which they recently launched a new company, BIM Strategy Ltd.

The system uses digital technology in the construction process and management of buildings for their complete life cycle. It is proving so crucial to the construction industry because it brings together a host of professionals and tradesmen who then work from a single design model.

State of the art computer software provides a single set of three-dimensional plans for building projects of all sizes.

The technology is redefining the construction industry globally and in the UK is being mandated by the government, which is aiming to make it an industry standard by 2016 for publically procured work.

The system offers one electronic point of reference containing vital information for the many consultants and contractors working on a scheme, ranging from wall sockets to wiring ducts, drainage, materials and dimensions.

The BIM model sits in the ‘cloud’ and is accessible, via the internet, replacing conventional plans and computer aided design. Because the model contains all relevant details of the scheme it allows for more accurate costs, helps with ordering materials and results in less waste.

Niven Architects have already won global acclaim for their work including the prestigious Build Qatar 2012 and Build Sydney 2013 competitions.

BIM Strategy Ltd is enjoying particular success conducting 3D modelling for suppliers, including Roman Showers, of Aycliffe, which has reported a huge response from companies downloading its models.

Construction manufacturers will need their products modelled in 3D before the 2016 deadline in order for them to be specified for publically procured work.

For more information, contact technical manager for BIM Strategy Marc Warren on 01325 461175.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Sarah French .