RIBA Stage 4: Technical Design – What’s the Rush?

RIBA Technical design

RIBA Stage 4: Technical Design – What’s the Rush? As structural engineers, we understand the eagerness to proceed directly to the technical design phase. However, it’s vital to prioritise completing phases 1-3 of the RIBA plan of work for several key reasons. Summary While it may be tempting to jump straight into technical design, completing […]

Meet Hannah: A Rising Star in Architecture!

hannah barnard

Meet Hannah, our newest addition to the team who joined us in early February 2024. She brings with her a wealth of experience and a passion for architecture that shines through in her work. Her journey into architecture began with a fascination for the end process and results of architectural projects. With a focus mainly […]

Critical Fire Safety: The Significance of Structural Engineer Fire Escape Inspections under BS 8210:2020

external fire escape

BS 8210:2020 Facilities Maintenance Management Fire safety is a paramount concern for any building, and having a robust fire escape plan in place is crucial for the protection of occupants and assets. While many aspects of fire safety are well-known and widely practiced, the importance of regular fire escape inspections conducted by qualified structural engineers, […]

Why Chartered Structural Engineers Thrive in Small Practices

structural engineers in small practice

Becoming a chartered structural engineer marks a significant milestone in your professional journey. Following your degree and after years of dedication and hard work you have finally become Chartered – huge congratulations! With this opportunity comes a wide range of opportunities, including the choice between working for a small or a large company. Each option […]

Julie and Olivia join the team!

Julie and olivia

Julie joined the team in June 2023 and comes with strong organisational skills and a customer service background. Before joining us Julie worked for the NHS through the GP surgery side of things, dealing with patients and clinical staff. She managed a team of fifteen and dealt with patients through COVID. Julie is a real […]

Changing Lives Through Friendship – Link Visiting

Introduction At Michael Aubrey Partnership we believe in the power of community and the positive impact that simple acts of kindness can have on individuals’ lives. Link Visiting is a remarkable organisation dedicated to fostering connections and providing support to those who may be feeling isolated or lonely. So this year instead of sending the […]

Structural Engineers Declare: A Call to Action for a Sustainable Future

structural engineers declare

Today John Staves, our Managing Director attended the Institution of Structural Engineers “Engineers Declare” summit in London. Climate change and its impact on the construction industry have been recognised for some time. Recently, the UK government announced a groundbreaking move to legislate a Net Zero Carbon target, ringing the alarm bells for all involved in […]

An Unforgettable Day at the Construction Leaders’ Summit 2023

construction leaders summit

Keynote Speaker: Dame Judith Hackitt Dame Judith Hackitt’s return as the keynote speaker was a highlight that set the tone for the entire event. Learning and Networking Throughout the day, we had the privilege of exploring the latest trends in building safety, sustainability, and digital transformation, including the integration of AI technology. The schedule brimmed […]

Thames River Cruise – What A Night!

river cruise

Clients, referrers, suppliers and friends of Michael Aubrey Structural Engineers and Create Home Design enjoyed a relaxing Friday evening exploring the picturesque River Thames. We were incredibly lucky with the weather – a beautiful warm summers evening ahead of us. After enjoying welcome drinks, team members mingled with clients, referrers, suppliers and friends – some […]

RAAC Panels – The Silent Threat Lurking Above

Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete

RAAC Panels – The Silent Threat Lurking Above In the world of construction, some dangers are concealed, lurking high above our heads. Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC) panels, once hailed for their thermal efficiency and fire resistance, have now become a cause for concern. Today, I’m sitting down with our Managing Director, John Staves, to […]

RAAC Inspections – Key Actions for Building Owners

RAAC school building

Introduction RAAC Inspections – Key Actions for Buiding Owners Building owners play a pivotal role in ensuring the safety and structural integrity of their properties. In buildings constructed between the 1960s and mid-1990s, concerns may arise regarding the use of Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC). To address these concerns and promote building safety, we have […]

Site Supervisor – CIOB Working Group 9

CIOB WG9

Great to receive an acknowledgement and “thank you” from the CIOB (Chartered Institute of Building) for John’s work on the CIOB Working group (Site Supervisor) steering group.  Coming out of the recommendations from the Hackitt report, attending the steering group enabled John to share his experience, skills and relevant knowledge to contribute to tangible actions […]