This is before the requirement for a building, let alone a building of a number of stories, has been established.

These typologies were called Platforms because they embody the common features of multiple assets: structural grids, beams, columns, connectors, slabs etc.Behind these commonalities lies a common kit of components, a much smaller set of components vs bespoke, traditional construction.. A limited number of components streamlines compliance.

The analysis showed that in fact 70% of the public sector estate could be delivered by one structural platform: a mid-span c.8m structural solution.As platforms ‘lock down’ the set of component specifications that sit behind design, this reduces the set of technical variables and requirements.This immediately standardises the process and streamlines the range of technical compliance as a result.

Plus, with choices in the assembly, architectural outcomes can still be recognisably different and tailored..At Bryden Wood, starting with productivity-led value drivers, we developed a hybrid steel and concrete mid span platform (Platform II).

We then proved the concept on the design and delivery of The Forge, a commercial building for Landsec, the first ‘platform’ building..

There are bound to be other mid span options: using other value drivers as a start point will no doubt give rise to other types of mid span platform e.g.The extraordinary difficulty of COVID-19 has created new urgency in our drive to transform construction, accelerating both the pace of change within the sector and our appetite for it..

The UK government’s Build Back Better initiative highlights a move away from our long-held and narrow focus on efficiency.Instead, we're beginning to turn towards much broader value outcomes: increased safety, net-zero carbon emissions, improved build quality, social value and more.

We want to create a better future for our built environment, one that benefits both people and the planet.However, to do this we’ll need to transform not only our approach, embracing new, MMC methodologies such as Design for Value and Platform construction, but also the way we work together across the public and private sector.