Process

Design

Most building designers now appreciate that laminated timber offers an extraordinary artistic freedom without losing the important elements every building requires to have. Thanks to modern technology, it is possible to manufacture structural members off-site with unrivalled precision and extraordinary accuracy.

Our experienced team of designers can optimise your design through a mix of creative thinking and value engineering. That experience will prove invaluable when it comes to the design of complex construction projects.

The use of leading design software allows us to conceptualise and create eye-catching designs of seemingly transparent constructions. Working with our European partners, we have vast experience in the design and construction of a wide range of building types, understanding performance criteria and regulations.

Composite construction and the most complicated of truss systems can also be easily created with incorporation of steel components at the design stage.

We offer a Total Design Service which can be provided through Stages 1 – 4 (see below) from inception to manufacture and by utilising sophisticated 3D design modelling, value engineering can be considered from the earliest stages. This ensures that our clients receive the highest level of service and a product that not only meets aesthetic and functional requirements but also is designed to offer optimal value for money at every stage.

Detailed design processes include early design advice and consulting, conceptual sketches, 2D general arrangements, industry leading CAD/CAM structural detailing and full 3D timber frame structural design.

By using Building Information Modelling (BIM), the structure can be modelled accurately using clash analysis of members and connections. Manufacturing drawings and material lists are created at the push of a button using our Design for Manufacturing and Assembly process (DfMA).

How we work

Stage 1 - Inception

At the very earliest stage of of the project, we listen to our clients ambitions and by reviewing the project specific fundamentals, including the building objectives and site constraints, we can then offer ideas and design solutions using our timber-first principles.

Stage 2 - Concept Design

At the very earliest stage of of the project, we listen to our clients ambitions and by reviewing the project specific fundamentals, including the building objectives and site constraints, we can then offer ideas and design solutions using our timber-first principles.

Stage 3 - Design Development

At the very earliest stage of of the project, we listen to our clients ambitions and by reviewing the project specific fundamentals, including the building objectives and site constraints, we can then offer ideas and design solutions using our timber-first principles.

Stage 4a - Technical Design

At the very earliest stage of of the project, we listen to our clients ambitions and by reviewing the project specific fundamentals, including the building objectives and site constraints, we can then offer ideas and design solutions using our timber-first principles.

Stage 4b - Construction Information

At the very earliest stage of of the project, we listen to our clients ambitions and by reviewing the project specific fundamentals, including the building objectives and site constraints, we can then offer ideas and design solutions using our timber-first principles.

Stage 5a - Off-Site Manufacture

At the very earliest stage of of the project, we listen to our clients ambitions and by reviewing the project specific fundamentals, including the building objectives and site constraints, we can then offer ideas and design solutions using our timber-first principles.

Stage 5b - On-Site Installation

At the very earliest stage of of the project, we listen to our clients ambitions and by reviewing the project specific fundamentals, including the building objectives and site constraints, we can then offer ideas and design solutions using our timber-first principles.

Stage 6 - Completion

At the very earliest stage of of the project, we listen to our clients ambitions and by reviewing the project specific fundamentals, including the building objectives and site constraints, we can then offer ideas and design solutions using our timber-first principles.

Manufacture

On completion & sign-off of our Design information, the project is then passed through to the manufacturing & production phases. By partnering with the leading European manufacturers of CLT, Glulam and Multiplan, we can guarantee our clients receive the ultimate in quality product.

As we move towards a fully developed ISO 9001 Quality Assured process, using CAD/CAM, BIM and Design for Manufacturing & Assembly (DfMA) methods, this information is transferred directly to the most sophisticated CNC machinery including large bed (40m long x 4m wide) CNC machining technology using laser eye sensors to position and accurately create the desired shapes, notches, penetrations and apertures.

This direct approach decreases the possibility for incorrect machining and ensures unparalleled accuracy whilst reducing procurement time. Multi-tool magazines also ensure tool changes are quick, eliminating downtime and maximising productivity.

Transport

All our materials are delivered directly to site using our own reputable and trusted hauliers. We arrange for all goods to be uplifted from or manufacturing partners across Europe and transported to the UK using appropriately sized trucks, with all customs clearances completed. We will normally have the delivery truck sited close to the site overnight / early on Day 1 ready for taking to site and unloading.

Unloading is normally carried out using the site crane and materials placed on suitable clean and dry laydown areas, located strategically for the efficiency of installation works.

Installation

As a specialist subcontractor, our experienced teams will carry out all installation works in accordance with an agreed programme and methodology, with all operatives trained for the tasks being undertaken. Our Installation works are normally carried out using a mobile crane and mewps, with no requirement for a scaffold (although sometimes that is unavoidable) and include recognised safe methods of work. In advance of works starting a full documented RAMS and Lift Plan will be prepared and agreed with the Main Contractor’s representative. Communication and Coordination with the Main Contractor and other subcontractors is critical to the success of any works, and this is an essential part of everything we do.

As many of our structures include visual grade materials it is also a critical part of our duties to ensure these are handled and protected as they are finally placed and fixed on-site. A moisture management plan is also an essential requirement as this needs to be closely controlled both during and after our works are complete.