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Who we are

Who we are

Our practice was formed based on a passion for structural engineering, with a reputation for innovative design solutions and lateral thinking. Through organic growth we have added skills and expertise in Civil and Infrastructure Engineering whilst maintaining the original ethos of the way our service is delivered.

We have studios in Hillsborough and London where our team of dynamic, creative and ambitious engineers and designers are known for their flexible and pro-active approach towards working with architects, artists, designers, developers and contractors.

Our experience of working within multidisciplinary teams enables us to make a positive contribution at the early stages of the design process, where our engineering input can help achieve elegant and cost-effective solutions.

Innovation at Design ID

Aside from the innovation carried out on a dailt basis through project work, we have a dedicated group of innovation enthusiasts based in our London office who aspire to use create digital tools that make a lasting positive impact in our industry.

Digital Hit Squad​

Our team assembled specifically to deliver digital enhancements & savings to our work & project teams. This encompasses both a wide range of projects and solutions, ranging from parametric design studies to python automation codes. The team are skilled in taking an idea / challenge through design and development and deployment / launch.

Emerging Innovations​

We also incorporate other emerging innovations such as:​

Application development for communication of technical studies and site surveys in a clear and simplified manner for clients and collaborators to consume​. Such products include our Asset Survey and Inspection Application for iOS devices to improve efficiency and accuracy of Civil and Structural surveys as well as automation of reporting.
Design and delivery of interactive AR / VR content for sculptural projects, to communicate the digital design journey via QR codes / smartphones to members of the public in a powerful and new interactive easily accessible medium.​

Modular Innovation

Modular Innovation​

One of our largest projects to date has been the development of our custom Modular Design & Documentation Tool – ‘Bay Builder’. Bay Builder unlocks a circular design process to a high level of detail / data whilst still facilitating an iterative design journey within modular projects.

We are continually refining our modular process and exploring new possibilities such as site surveys, new design solutions and materials.

Climate Emergency​

We are committed to tackling the collective global climate emergency. We believe Innovation and the development of new solutions and digital tools has a key part to play in overcoming this collective challenge.

We have developed solutions to empower clients, collaborators and projects to make climate informed decisions. We use digital tools to provide real time EC calculations on Revit models & design options as well as continually seeking efficiencies in material volumes to generate large savings not only in CO2e but also in clients’ budgets.

Our Team

We have developed a practice where research, material and technical knowledge are key in providing services beyond those of the more traditional engineering consultants. Our work covers an unusually wide range, both in nature and scale, with projects varying from minor alterations and extensions, to major new buildings and refurbishment projects. We use the most recent developments in materials and construction techniques to keep at the fore of our ever evolving industry.

We have developed the skills required to engineer geometrically and structurally complex projects. Three dimensional computer modelling is becoming an integral aspect in realising many design visions and we are able to use our skills in this area at conceptual stages to help other members of the design team and clients visualise various solutions

Our approach, along with our creative background allows us to work in harmony with Architects without compromising the integrity of their concept. This inspires and drives us to create ingenious, forward thinking but appropriate designs to overcome engineering difficulties and material limitations.

We have also continued to build on our pro-active and enthusiastic relationship with major Contractors to expand on our Design & Build offering. We have therefore been able to offer efficient design services on a range of structural and civil infrastructure projects, including design for temporary works and construction logistics feasibility.

Our Culture

At Design ID taking care of our team is top priority. We do this in many ways, we love and take care of our work environment, our teams, we understand each other and work to our strengths and support each other in what we do. Leading by example with energy and enthusiasm provides confidence and enjoyment in our work.

Providing a positive working environment and providing appropriate support, work hand in hand to promote and support mental wellbeing within our company. Much of the work we do is technical but there’s another skill we all need to have: the interpersonal kind. It isn’t optional.

Support mechanisms to promote wellbeing include:

Dedicated HR Manager
Mental Health First Aider
Employee Assistance Programme
Sports and Social Committee providing a range of team building activities

Gender Equality

Design ID actively support our employees, regardless of gender and provide equal rights, responsibilities, and opportunities. Whilst the gender pay gap in the construction industry is 18%, we are proud to declare at Design ID that a gender pay gap does not exist - salaries per role are equal, with employees being measured by their ability, not their gender.

Did you know that only 6% of Chartered Members of the Institution of Structural Engineers are female? Currently in Design ID 25% of our MIStructE staff are female.

We are always aiming for balance; whilst the UK average for female engineers is 12%, we are currently at 30% and continuously improve on this. Our female engineers are in influential positions on the ICE and IStructE committees and tutor at local Universities, acting as role models for current and future engineers

Accreditations

  • Constructionline - Ref 69496
  • SER Approved Certifiers of Design
  • TRADA Member
  • Concrete Society Members

Recent Awards

2021 New London Award - People's Choice Award - Shortlisted - Imperial War Museum
2021 Building Awards - Offsite of the Year - Imperial War Museum
2021 Offsite Awards - Commercial Project of the Year - Imperial War Museum
2021 IStructE Project Winner -Top of the Hill
2021 IStructE Project Winner -SRC Banbridge

2020 IStructE Project Award Winner - FX Building
2020 NCE100 Shortlisted - 'Impact in Bridges'

2019 IStructE Project Award Winner - Ballynameen Bridge
2019 Concrete Society - Best Civil Engineering Projects - Ballynameen Bridge Repair and Refurbishment
2019 NCE 100 Innovation in Project Initiation

2018 IStructE Project Award Winner - Former Maysfield Leisure Centre for Concentrix
2018 NCE100 Trending 20
2018 Regional Group Prize from IStructE - Innovation in the Design & Construction of Temporary Works on various projects

2017 NCE100 - Placed 83
2017 Concrete Society Award - Innovative Temporary Works by Design ID & McFarland Associates Ltd- Senator House
2017 Regional Group Prize from IStructE - Conservation and Restoration of St Mel's Cathedral, Longford

2016 IStructE Project Award Winner – Clic Sargent, Belfast
2016 IABSE Design Competition Winner – Strabane Pedestrian Cycle Bridge

2015 IStructE Project Award Winner – Weavers Court, Belfast
2015 RIBA House of the Year - Shortlist - House Maghera by McGonigle McGrath
2015 RIBA National Award - House Maghera by McGonigle McGrath
2015 RICS Northern Ireland - Regeneration - Larne Market Yard Highly Commended

2014 RIBA Award - Home from Home RVH by McGonigle McGrath
2014 RSUA Award - Home from Home RVH by McGonigle McGrath

2013 RIBA Stirling Prize - Shortlist - Giant's Causeway Visitor Centre by Heneghan Peng

2012 RIBA Award - 109 Osborne Park Belfast by ARD (ciaran mackel) Architects

The Culture of Design ID

At the heart of Design ID is a great team. We aim to offer a competitive salary and benefits package combined with a commitment to learning and development of all staff. As important as this is, we also strive to make our studios a great place to work.

Our company funded sports and social committee organise numerous events and parties throughout the year. These have ranged from water skiing to go-karting and treetop adventures. We also have more subdued lunches at the local public houses a few doors away. Team morale and bonding are essential at building trust and improving communication, plus we like to have fun whilst working hard!

The introduction of a Cycle to Work scheme allows employees to purchase a tax free bicycle.