Magdalen College Library restoration
17 September 2015
QODA is working with Stepnell on restoring the magnificent Magdalen College Library to its celebrated state. Designed by John Chessell Buckler in 1851, it is being significantly redesigned (including the removal of an offending floor slab introduced by Giles Gilbert Scott) to open up the whole vaulted space. QODA have been appointed to act as M&E advisor/coordinator through the construction stages.
Cliveden
28 August 2015
A beautiful National Trust property comprising of an Italianate mansion and estate at Taplow, Buckinghamshire. QODA are investigating the water mains and possibly re-instating the borghese balustrade. QODA are also planning new incoming services to the Furnary and Sounding Room.
Newman Brothers Coffin Works shortlisted
12 August 2015
The Newman Brothers Coffin Works project has been shortlisted for the best rescue of an historic industrial building or site in the 2015 Historic England Angel Awards. The annual Angel Awards, founded by Andrew Lloyd Webber and supported by the Telegraph, celebrate the efforts of local people who have saved historic buildings and places. The judges, chaired by Andrew Lloyd Webber will choose the winners in the summer. Winners will be announced at an awards ceremony on 7th September, to be held at the Palace Theatre, London. ...
Blue Cross
17 July 2015
We are pleased to be working with the Blue Cross Animal Charity on the development of their site at Burford. The work planned will provide new and refurbished accommodation to improve the service they offer. As keen animal lovers, it’s a great project to be involved with.
Shakespeare Night Out
2 July 2015
QODA enjoyed a night of culture at the Oxford Shakespeare festival. A few drinks on a lovely summers evening, open air theatre followed by a few more drinks. ‘All the world’s a stage’.
BS7671: 2008, The IET Wiring Regulations
1 July 2015
The Third Amendment to BS7671:2008, the IET Wiring regulations became effective on the 1st January 2015. From this date there is a six month transition period before the 1st July 2015 when all installations must be designed to comply with the new regulations. The Amendment introduces a number of changes throughout the regulations and a useful guide.
Taking BIM to the next level
1 July 2015
QODA has long been advocates for BIM and the benefits it brings to construction. The opportunities for coordination and clash detection are generally accepted as are the benefits of scheduling cost management. These are all tasks that are aimed to make our life easier – “proper design”, minimal change and efficient construction. Whilst clients want to see less risk and lower construction costs, delivered through these efficiencies, they also want to see the finished product before signing off on a huge budget – wouldn’t you? We all like to try before we buy! So Virtual Real...
Multi-million facelift at The Ivy
1 June 2015
London’s A List restaurant, The Ivy, re-opened its doors yesterday after a multi-million-pound refurbishment. The building has retained much of its unique character and charm but has been redesigned with new interiors, a new kitchen and completely new M&E systems. You won’t see our work mentioned in the Evening Standard – which means it’s discreet and out of sight! ...
A Haven for Wildlife
17 May 2015
London Wildlife Trust have started work at Woodberry Wetlands in Hackney. This ambitious project will create a special nature reserve for rare birds alongside modern towers blocks in an urban conurbation. QODA are providing design support to the project.
NBS Create
14 May 2015
Keeping specifications up to date is a time consuming but essential task. With our recent investment in NBS create this will no longer be an issue. With regular online updates, simple specification writing tools and BIM capability, it is set to transform the way we work.
Unintended consequences
10 May 2015
Following a recent briefing meeting held with the local engineering team from SEE Plc we have a better understanding of the limitations placed on connecting renewable generation schemes to the existing electricity network. A recent scheme at Rose Hill Community Centre has been limited to 49kW (rather than the 62kWp planned) due to network equipment issues at the main Cowley substation. It appears this is becoming an increasingly prevalent problem around the country as the antiquated National Grid was never designed for the power flows caused by the proliferation of micro generation. ...
Renewable Generation Schemes
4 May 2015
Following a recent briefing meeting held with the local engineering team from SEE Plc we have a better understanding of the limitations placed on connecting renewable generation schemes to the existing electricity network. A recent scheme at Rose Hill Community Centre has been limited to 49kW (rather than the 62kWp planned) due to network equipment issues at the main Cowley substation. It appears this is becoming an increasingly prevalent problem around the country as the antiquated National Grid was never designed for the power flows caused by the proliferation of micro generation...