Our approach brings together many talents and perspectives within our creative collective to interrogate what already exists on a project. This scrutiny means we can offer a second opinion and anticipate any problems that might arise in its delivery as well as identifying opportunities to innovate.

The strong design culture that is shared between Sheppard Robson, AXIS and ID:SR means we appreciate the design direction that has already been established on our projects, allowing us to take custodianship of concepts for the client. Our big-practice background means that we embrace complexity and draw on the many talents of the collective to plot a clear path to delivery.

We started our investment in Revit, and other BIM software and processes, in 2012 and have now undertaken over 200 projects using these digital tools. Our central team of BIM and computational specialists is dedicated to promoting and supporting implementation across the practice and work closely with design teams, clients and contractors, as well being involvement in industry steering groups.

Training is continual and is catered for in-house through a variety of formats, ranging from weekly lunchtime workshops delivered by our BIM Leads and Senior Coordinators, to tailored one-on-one training for senior staff delivered by our BIM Training Coordinator, to weekly project-based workshops by project allocated BIM Coordinators.

Borrowing the experience of the wider Sheppard Robson team, Design Delivery Reviews take place at the commencement of RIBA Work Stages 2, 3 and 4. These reviews, carried out by Design Delivery Group members, support the project team in preparing for the upcoming Work Stage.

The principal aims are to ensure project consistency, promote efficiency and manage risks. The agenda for all reviews is as follows: Appointment; Scope of Service; Design Responsibility Matrix; Programme; Resourcing; CAD and BIM; Deliverables; Standardisation and Statutory Compliance; Sustainability; Quality; and Risk.

Interconnected actions can achieve more than individual gestures, and the best architecture grows out of meaningful, constructive engagement in which end users, clients and design team are partners. Our process is shaped by conversation and exchange within the practice, enabling all to benefit from our collective experience and perspective. We’re not just one designer; we’re many.