Architectural Technology Awards 2018

[edit] Introduction

On 14 September 2018, Designing Buildings Wiki attended the second Architectural Technology Awards.

The annual awards of the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists (CIAT) celebrate the latest achievements and highest quality in architectural technology. The event, hosted by BBC journalist and presenter Matt Allwright, showcased architectural technology both in practise and as a key academic discipline, demonstrating its growth and impact within the UK and internationally.

In his introductory speech, Allwright said that at a time when people have supposedly “had enough of experts”, ad hominem counter-arguments are commonplace, and events such as Grenfell Tower reveal a “merry-go-round of buck-passing”, it is worth celebrating disciplines that rely on “accountability, evidence, scientific fact and technological expertise.”

Beneath the vaulted brick roof of Village Underground in east London, guests from across the built environment were treated to canapes, cocktails and live jazz.

The 2018 winners were:

[edit] Student Award for Excellence in Architectural Technology (Report)

(Recognising outstanding research achievement in Architectural Technology from a dissertation assignment)

Winner: 'In Situ Reinforcement of Timber Beams in a Conservation Setting', Darren Nelson, University of Central Lancashire

An experimental study was undertaken to determine the strength of reinforced timber joists using the near surface mount method. A research area that is topical and important for Architectural Technology, retrofit design, conservation and sustainability.

Highly Commended: 'Special Educational Needs Facilities — An Analysis of the Necessities for Inclusion', Simone Gray, City College Plymouth

This research focused on inclusivity and wellbeing linked to special needs facilities and the design of spaces for people who would benefit from such an environment.

Commended: 'Mind the (Performance) Gap — Embracing Technology to Enhance On-site Performance', Erin O’Kane, Ulster University

Identifying the gaps between designed performance and as-built performance alongside lifespan characteristics.

[edit] Student Award for Excellence in Architectural Technology (Project)

(Recognising outstanding design achievement in Architectural Technology based on a university/college assignment)

Winner: School of Architectural Technology, Elizabete Jakobsone, Institute of Technology Carlow

A design for a new school of Architectural Technology with a creative, innovative solution underpinned by the application of science and engineering. An exemplary winner.

Commended: The David Lloyd Lymington Sports Village, Tristan Salkeld, Solent University

A sports village complex designed on the principles of sustainability and environmental performance.

[edit] The Alan King Award for Excellence in Architectural Technology

(For projects valued £750k or under)

Winner: Old Gale Farm, Ambleside, John Coward Architects Ltd

A c.17th century farmhouse renovated and modernised as a peaceful retreat for a retired couple. Careful consideration of the breathability of existing structures shows an excellent understanding of how to combine traditional methods of construction to meet the demands of modern living.
 
Highly Commended: Alterations and Extension to The Grange, Stuart Davidson Architecture

The aim of the project was to reinvigorate a dated traditional dwelling house and create a contemporary ‘family hub’.

Commended: Stead Street, Eckington, France and Associates

A bespoke two-storey home, accessible for the client and forming the basis of continued rehabilitation after an accident that left her severely visually impaired. A lifetime home was created and delivered.

[edit] The Award for Excellence in Architectural Technology

Winner: The Engine Shed, Historic Environment Scotland/Reiach & Hall Architects

The Engine Shed is Scotland’s dedicated building conservation centre based in Stirling. Excellent conservation practice is evident through the use of traditional materials, technology and sustainability, demonstrating the adaption and reuse of a historic building for a new life. With sustainability at the heart of the design, the judges were unanimous in their decision that the project is the worthy winner of the 2018 award.

Highly Commended: Gresham’s School Britten Building, LSI Architects

Gresham’s School is a co-educational school accommodating day pupils and boarders from across the UK and overseas. A highly competent and well considered solution to create an excellent learning environment for music.

Commended: AgriSTEM, Maber Architects

The AgriSTEM Academy was the third and final part of a development at South Staffordshire College and is a building that the college can be proud of.

[edit] The Chartered Architectural Technologist of the Year Award

Winner: Dan Rossiter MCIAT, Chartered Architectural Technologist

Dan has achieved much and will achieve much more. He is demonstrably a credit to CIAT. He is a recognised industry professional commanding respect from CEOs and industry leaders. His role at BRE as Senior BIM Communicator, his personal energy and his award-winning Blog, combine to the benefit of UK construction.

All the Awards are featured in the autumn issue of AT Journal. The Awards reopen in the New Year for 2019.

--CIAT

[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki

• Articles by CIAT on Designing Buildings Wiki.
• Architectural technologist.
• Architectural technologist - delineation of roles.
• Architectural Technology Awards 2017.
• Interview with Gary Mees, CIAT.
• The history of the architectural profession.