Designed by Ryder Architecture, the new Grade A flexible office space at Bank House in Newcastle upon Tyne is an outstanding example of how digital technologies are helping architects work more collaboratively, delivering safer and more efficient design processes. The Bank House site marks the southern end of Pilgrim Street, a landmark arrival point when approaching the city from the south across the Tyne Bridge. It is the first phase of an important regeneration project to redevelop the wider Pilgrim Street area of Newcastle.
A massive undertaking, the development is 63-metres tall, and has a huge glass and concrete façade comprising more than 860 pre-cast panels. With high expectations to deliver a diverse and ambitious scope of work, Ryder Architecture turned to long-time collaborator and fellow Newcastle-founded firm, NBS. An NBS customer since the early 90’s, Ryder was also the first to produce a specification using NBS Chorus, a cloud-based platform.
The specification platform provided Ryder with a new level of collaboration, enabling the team to develop their specifications in the office, on-site, and even with team members working remotely. The ambitious project also required close collaboration between Ryder, principal contractor Bowmer + Kirkland, structural civil engineer Cundall, and façade engineer Arup. Through Ryder’s Chorus seat, the team was able to work collaboratively with the contractor and others to develop the specification.
The data-driven framework of Chorus allowed Ryder to rapidly specify building components and materials while integrating them into other data, helping the team to deliver more efficiently and cost effectively for their client. The use of cloud technology meant that they had access to NBS’ extensive information library, with BIM objects loaded in as well as direct links to manufacturer information via its second platform, Source.
Chorus also has the added benefit of providing the latest standards and regulations, ensuring quality through standardisation and consistency in the specification. It further supports architects with the golden thread of information, providing a key record of everything that has gone into a specification and tightening up safety and design protocols.
