Al+ech- Research Methods- Laura Toth by laura_toth

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1.2 Title Sub title

About us 4

Our Values and Ethos

1.0 The Pitch 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 20 22

Meet the Team Zero Fuel Energy Usage Energy Democracy A New Market Al+ech Integrated Homes Business Time-line Finance Projection Marketing Strategy

2.0 The Business 24 26 28 30 32 34 36 38 40 42 44 46 48 50 52 54

Our Goals in Al+ech Source of Funding We Design for you Business Structure Team Collaboration External Development Marketing What we Offer The Future is Green Our Competitors Ready for the Take-off Algae Cost Financial Strategy Fee Structure SWOT Analysis PESTLE Analysis

3.0 The Process 56 58 60 62

Design-Build Procurement The Process Production Strategy

“Its really amazing how these houses can create it’s own energy, isn’t that sustainable, right?!”

“I no longer worry about the high energy bills I used to have.” These houses are quality made! Always warm and cosy for my family.”

“I can now charge my car using leftover energy stored from the algae system, without worrying about increased electricity bills.” “Go green! You won’t regret it!”

Reference 64

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Reference

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About us Our Value and Ethos

We are Al+ech, an architectural firm specialised on carbon free design. Our design team works closely with in house research department as well as with external collaborators. This is in-line with the Paris Agreement (2014), to reduce carbon pollution that cause climate change. The UK gov. responded to the Paris Agreement by having the Zero Carbon Policy by 2030/2050. Al+ech focus on pioneering eco developments that save carbon and drive technological change. Our mission is to create valuable case studies to progress the field of sustainable construction. Our business has grown from offering energy-efficient retrofit advice to homeowners to developing ground-breaking Passivhaus properties and providing consultancy services to architects, councils, social housing providers, and one of the UK’s largest food retailers. We’re also passionate about sharing our knowledge so that everyone in the building sector has the skills to reduce carbon in the built environment. Ecospheric offers a range of CPD courses, tours, lectures, and events.

We found that the majority of homes are in the EPC C category (EPC “A” is very low energy and “G” is extremely high energy). All this means that social homes and new built homes are not on track to reach an average “mid B” by 2050 (see figure 1) and very few landlords have plans for deep retrofit beyond 2030. (Housing 2050, 2021). We found minimal action to transition away from gas as a heating source. This is despite Government signals to decarbonise heat in domestic properties. Barriers were uncertainty over the future technology and policy of low-carbon heat. (Housing 2050, 2021). We are here to ensure we meet those targets by ensuring new homes are fit for the future, It is time to be more algressive!

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2.4% 5.6% E A 27.1% D

5.6% B

EPC Band A: 92-100 EPC Band B: 81-91 EPC Band C: 69-80 EPC Band D: 55-68 EPC Band: E39-54 No SAP: <39

58.9% C

Fig 1: Current Distribution of energy efficiency. A 2050 target is that the *average SAP should be 86 or in the middle of the EPC “B” band. (Housing 2050, 2021).

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1.0 Meet the Team Team Structure

Research Developer

Adha

Laura

Zohir

Zakaria

Syahirah

Andrea

We realised with the Covid-19 Pandemic , global warming, climate change and the amount of time spent at home, having an energy efficient, sustainable green home is the ideal way to live. We came to vision a practice that is heavily based on Micro Algae technology, to explore this untapped potential and the possible prospect it brings. Al+tech comprise of 7 main members that work together by handling different department segments. Each department rely on each other in order to continuosly ensure the smooth progress and improvement of company performance, project performance and design efficacy. Financial Management and Business strategist are the management team that runs the business side of the company. On the project and technological side, there are the Research & Technology, Operations and Manufacture, Engineer, Design Architect and Project Manager. These are the two core departments that shape Al+tech. This is where Micro algae based research, production and design application in Al+tech Homes are found, created and improved on over time with the continuos collaboration with universities and ARUP engineering.

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Business Strategist

Engineer

Aifa

The vision to create Al+ech began in 2019, back when we were a group of Postgraduate Architecture students from Manchester School of Architecture.

Operations & Manufacture

Financial Management

Lead Designer Project Management

We start off with sharing our resources together as a LLP (Limited Liability Partnership company) based on the amount of salary being paid later. Agreeably, establishing a LLP instead of a normal Partnership would be more reasonable as the limited Liability prevents any adverse effect on the partners incase the business liability exceeds the invested capital amount. In this current economic climate starting any business is difficult , thus beginning a LLP company would safe guard partners interest while allowing for shared resource. Al+ech celebrates collaborative and open communication culture that emphasizes equality and shared visions and responsibility. Such culture is best applied in a Holacratic type structure. There are no assigned roles and employees have the flexibility to take on various tasks and move between teams freely. The organizational structure of a holacracy is rather flat, with there being little hierarchy. We rely on each other’s strength and networks. Decision making is made through a collective agreement. Each partner establishes their group of trusted team members that they work well with. A Holacratic structure is a ‘boss-less’ organisation that goes against the hierarchy of a traditional top-down company structure. This is suited for a small to medium size firm that we are in this early stages. As the company grows, it may need some sort of structure and a possible shift to having a flat organisation mught be feasible when the company changes into a Limited or Co-Operative type company.

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1.1 Zero Fuel Zero-energy Building

1 2 3 4 8

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1.1 Energy Usage Why we care

Fostering Change

We are a design practice that values affordable energy for future homes. With increasing pressure from the Government to reduce carbon emissions, yet they forget to mention if energy is actually accessible for everyone. Affordable homes with unaffordable energy bills. ‘What architecture can foster is a gradual shift in the politics of use and develop an approach, making visible possibilities that are kept away from us and that can suddenly become desirable. Where we can manifest or alter attitudes towards political change for a better solution.’ (Julier, 2013). The rising energy bills are the number one financial concern for households, and prices are expected to increase above inflation. UK may have the lowest average energy prices in Europe yet it has the highest rates of fuel poverty. 2.5 million households in England are classified as being in fuel poverty in 2014. (Banks, 2021). This is because our energy inefficient homes are a major contributing factor to high energy bills. We are here to change that! Average for a Medium sized house, a 6% rise compared to 2018 figures. (What is the average gas and electricity bill in the UK? | OVO Energy, 2021)

Our Future Homes

Bioreacter Facade Algae Biomass

Biogas

Electric

Heating

With government backing, providing carbon neutral homes is easy. Not only it reduces carbon emissions, we are making energy accessible. You see, algae, or more correctly microalgea, are very small aquatic organism that convert sunlight into energy. Some of these algae store energy in the form of natural oils, Extract that oil, and you have raw materials to make fuel to power our Al+tech Homes. Another great benefit? Well, consider this: like plants, algae needs carbon dioxide to grow that is good for the environment, since it takes CO2 out of the atmosphere, making it a nearly carbon-neutral fuel sources, unlike photovoltaic panels, where stored batteries and the process of recycling of the batteries is very polluting(Energy 101: Algae-to-Fuel, 2021). The Al+Tech System system has the potential of producing 12.500 kWh/year with 185 m2 of surface area for algae cultivation (Growenergy, 2013), which is approximately 4 households.

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1.1 Energy Democracy Redistributing Energy to the People

As the expansion of renewable energy accelerates, the transformable potential of moving away from fossil fuel reliance is becoming increasingly clear. Around the world, we are recognising that renewable energy offers much more than just reliable clean electricity, pollution reductions, and climate mitigation. In addition to these environmental benefits, the renewable energy revolution also provides potential to transform society by redistributing jobs, wealth, health, and political power more equitably. Energy democracy is a growing social movement that prioritises this potential for redistributing power to the people through renewable transformation. Energy democracy acknowledges how fossil-fuel-based energy systems and the associated massive corporate profits of large multinational energy companies have perpetuated inequities, exacerbated disparate vulnerabilities, and promoted widespread injustices among and within communities around the world. By highlighting the negative societal impacts of fossil-fuel-based concentration of power and wealth, the principles of energy democracy connect energy system change with an associated transformation toward a more socially just and equal society. The idea that more homes, communities and businesses generate their own energy to literally bring power back to the people. Microgeneration is a key part of this vision. The potential for microgeneration in the UK is huge. The industry has a vision for an energy generating democracy where millions of people to create their own heat and power, not only cutting carbon but creating jobs, supporting innovation and encouraging enterprise. Previous government policy has distorted the market and held back the industry by well intentioned but poorly designed and inconsistent interventions

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1.2 A New Market

Exploiting the Potential for a new Sector in the Algae Tech. Market

The Process

How we can maintain our Unique Selling Point

Define it! More investors on board

Launch it Sell it

We can be the first to provide a hosuing sector

The Great Idea Designing more that just a home

Make it, Production Mode

Brand it!

Fund it Protect it

Overall market trend, where there was a rapid growth in algal biotechnology over the past decade, and as these technological advancments continue, the price of algae biofuel technology will continue to decrease. (Li, Du, Fu and Cao, 2020). The overall price for Algal Technology is cheaper in 2020. Currently there are no competitions where they offer Algal biotech solutions in houses, this is where we can expontentialy grow a new market and be the first to patent a product for use in our Al+ech Houses.

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Creating the Innovative house design

We believe our homes are unique!

Best time to buy into Algae!

Collaboration with Arup and Colt Group

Conforming the Copyright Designs and Patents Act 1988 (CDPA 1988), is created. In terms of architectural works, this includes architectural plans, drawings and buildings. ‘It is well established that copyright law only protects the expression of ideas but not the ideas themselves.’ (Mann and Denoncourt, 2009). To protect our identity we work closely with our sponsors to create complete bespoke modularised homes, Our architectural work is protected where ‘unauthorised copying’ cannot be possible since we are the only provider for Algae technology homes, where all components are unique in nature. However, this is not to say other architectural practices cant use Algae technology, its just we provide a more complete home scheme, where the algae is part of an ecosphere that can provide flexible, warm comfortable homes for the community. Group BB Al+ech

1.3 Al+ech Integrated Homes Microalgae Panels

Al+ech Integrated Home Design A. Algae Facade The biomass concentration dictates how much light can pass through the panels and it increases when the sun is shining. It can be integrated in the facade or acts as a second skin facade. B. Algae Roof Panel Flat panels can be used the same as with solar panels. It can and should track the sun for maximum efficiency and at the same time shade the space behind the flat panels. C. Algae Glass Panel With higher concentrations of microalgae, more light is absorbed and the panel will be darker in color with less transparency

How It Works? Natural Sources

Algae Bioreactor Panel

Energy Storage

Power Distribution

Sunlight Water

Microalgae Closed-Loop System

Carbon Dioxide

Algae Biomass Electricity

Hot Water

Gas Burner

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Heating System

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1.4 Business Time-line The past, Now and the Future

We have funding for research power, to go the next phase into the development, vast amounts of funding will be required to do so.

Paris Meeting has been held to discuss climate issues in the world today.

The Paris Agreement is a legally blinding international treaty on climate change. It was adopted by 196 Parties at COP 21 Paris. Its goal is to limit global warming to well below 2, preferably to 1.5 degree Celsius, compared to pre industrial levels. (The Paris Agreement, 2021).

Discovery of Algae, intervention of microanalysis and working with researchers to see the potential.

The birth of al+ech commenced. Towards a green future.

A team of chemical engineers have developed a new kind of jet mixer for creating biomass from algae that extracts the lipids from the watery plants with much less energy than the older extraction method. This key discovery now puts this form of energy closer to becoming a viable, cost-effective alternative fuel. (Tseng, Mohanty, McLennan and Pease, 2019).

A partnership with Arup The Bio Intelligence Quotient (BIQ) to radicalise the use of algae in building construction

Our main investors are, Colt Group. Our sponsors are Arup The Bio Intelligence Quotient (BIQ) and University of Manchester Faculty of Humanities Environmental Sustainability Research Department. We offer an architectural service by collaborating with top engineers and scientis at BIQ. We are going to use products engineered by Colt Group, who are willing to invest thier own products for use in our first pilot to green housing.

Operation Algae is ready only with your investment!

Collabartion with Arup, rsesarching algae potential for free clean energy in homes.

We work BIQ a team of scientist and engineers to design the future UK house. Establishing a LLP instead of a normal Partnership would be more reasonable as the limited Liability prevents any adverse effect on the partners incase the business liability exceeds the invested capital amount.

First Pilot testing for sustainable homes. Funding required to test the potential of reusable clean energy.

Our investors and sponsors are well on board and looking for more investment opputunity to test and pilot the first algea sustainable home estate. This testing is fundamental towards a green brighter future. We as a partnership are confident that we can have funding from the government to provide extra funding and grants if our testing proves beneficial towards the economy and climate.

Production of sustainable homes using Colt Group Technology increases for future housing stock in UK.

Vast amounts of true sustainable homes across the UK, exceeding the 2030 expectation.

The first pilot for sustainable homes will prove that algae is the future! Where essentially we will have part government backing to allow more production of the Algae homes. Al-tech will ensure that each home will provide the best modern design and construction to create sustainable homes and communities. These are homes you can tailor to suit your way of life, They are going to be spacious, efficient, green and fit for the future. s. As the company grows, it may need some sort of structure and a possible shift to having a flat organisation mught be feasible when the company changes into a Limited or Co-Operative type company.

As potential future developers, we will be ready to meeting the target for carbon neutrality, exceeding the expectation and wasting no further time in finding another solution as the UK or possibly the world will be more green than ever with our homes.

‘by recognising where we are now, we can also decide where we want to be in the future by learning the market trends, learning the potential it has in the real world, just by having a mission and a purpose.’ - (Booth, 2020: Presentation Business Planning Part 3)

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1.5 Finance Projection Company Benchmark

Benchmarks are ment to be a guide of how a practice will grow in the coming years ahead. These are set goals through time with consideration of how much revenue, expenditure and profit that might be when the practice grows over time. A good guide would be to base these projections based on the RIBA Business Benchmarking Report of 2020. The Report gives practices a perspective of where their current company performance situated within the UK context. (Malleson A. (2020) RIBA Benchmarking). These data also provides a basis to how much Salary grows overtime therefore ensuring that employee and key personnel salary growth is at par with current trends. This is important too ensure equality and reduce salary gap between firms of the same practice size. Looking into current conditions of year 2019 - 2020, with the newly implemented BREXIT that will take full effect by 2022 and starting the company during the Pandemic of Covid-19, Revenue trends as according to RIBA Benchmark looks quite bleak. Thus why optimistically Al +ech will begin slowly by establishing a small practice of 7-10 staff members that is a LLP (Limited Liability Partnership) However since the year 2020 is where the launch of the first Prototype Al+ech will commence, hence the first year of 2019 - 2022 will look at a trend of losses. Small projects will however keep the company afloat woth personal projects with clients based on Design and Build contracts. By 2025, Al +ech will hopefully grow in size to accommodate 20-50 staff members as the first Al +ech housing will take place, possibly in Manchester. At this stage Al +ech will be registered as a Limited Co (LTD) to allow for Shareholding and increase capital capacity as the project and company size grows. By 2030, the UK Government target to reduce 68% (Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy (2020) of Carbon emission will be further supported by having the whole of UK housing scheme utilising green technology and Al +ech technology. By this stage the company will need to grow to 50 - 100 staff members as the scale of projects Increase and the trend and technology of Micro Algae matures. At this stage, Al +ech looks into being a Co-operative type company that allows majority of Board of Directors to comprise of Employees (51% of share) via employee benefit trust. Ensuring that there is a more democratic type of company leadership and responsibility where employees are involved at all levels. (Dall N. 2020) . This ensure employees are invested to the work they are doing in Al +ech and as well as allowing for more capacity for Al +ech to grow.

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1.6 Marketing Strategy

How?

Raising Awareness

At AL+ECH, we marketed our services and products through various medium intended to our target audiences. Our marketing and research team work together in making sure we reach public engagements which could potentially contribute to our business expansion.

Strategy As AL+ECH focuses on energy sustainability and conservation, our marketing strategy includes raising awareness to the public on the advantages of micro-algae. Our aim to reach the government’s 2030 mission will not be able to be carried out without getting more people aware with the potential of new possibilities in moving forward. Our plan to design the micro-algae home comes with careful researches and studies in providing the best sustainable homes that could satisfy our investors as well as our clients.

DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY

Our company focuses on delivering the best experiences for the people especially in the current pandemic situation. Therefore, we are now making use of the advantages of digital platform to introduce our architectural practice as well as our research values and potential. This includes our website with user and mobilefriendly interface for easier access to those who are interested in our company. We are also focusing on other aspects to reach more specific audiences which is through industrial and educational outreach where we hold or join industrial conventions, and educational seminars and forum.

ech INDUSTRIAL OUTREACH

CONVENTION

SOCIAL MEDIA

ADVERTISEMENTS

WEBSITE

ELECTRONIC PUBLICATIONS

EDUCATIONAL OUTREACH

SEMINARS AND FORUM

VIRTUAL TOUR

There are two major problems in Archtiect Marketing which are ‘Business Pillars’ & ‘Positioning’ as pitched by Iddon, 2020: Presentation Marketing for Architects, One is being to demonstrate to future prospectors about the benefits of Al+ech and one is to position ourselves as the best sustainable solution in the market. To do this we have to sustain a motive throughout all our platforms, and this consistency can start to inspire, gain research power and a potential surplus or profit for the future of Al+ech. (Iddon, 2020).

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2.0 Our Goals in Al+ech What Do We Want To Achieve?

The Question How can we have a solution for the green renewable energy that answering the energy and housing crisis in the UK towards net-zero emissions in 2050?

Housing Issues in UK

Global Housing Issues

The government wants a green recovery that accelerates progress towards its 2050 net-zero emissions target. Ministers have rightly identified housing as a priority: heating and hot water in homes are the UK’s second largest source of emissions when taken together, and the UK’s homes are mostly draughty and inefficient.

As the global population increases, so too does energy demand. The threat of climate change means that there is an urgent need to find cleaner, renewable alternatives to fossil fuels that do not contribute extensive amounts of greenhouse gases with potentially devastating consequences on our ecosystem.

Our Goals At Al+ech, our goals will be on ensuring the Net Zero Carbon Homes and commercializing Sustainable Energy that is affordable and renewable. Our practice focussing on designing modular design of Microalgae Homes while collaborating with different specialization throughout three main departments of Design, Research & Development and Technology. We specialized in integrating the Microalgae Panel from the beginning of the design stage until the construction phase. We aim to have this opportunity to restructure the traditional housing development into an eco-friendly environment starting from the year of 2020.

Long-term Goals As potential future developers, we will be ready to meeting the target for carbon neutrality, exceeding the expectation and wasting no further time in finding another solution as we the UK will be more green than ever.

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2.1 Source of Funding

How we can Support the Future of Science & Technology

GETTING BUILDING FUND

RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT (R&D) TAX RELIEF The Research and Development (R&D) represents the activities companies undertake to innovate and introduce new products and services or to improve existing ones.

The Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) has been allocated £54.2m from the GBF (Getting Build Fund) for a wide range of projects and companies such as Al+ech. (GREATER MANCHESTER GETTING BUILDING FUND, 2020). Details of the £2 billion Green Homes Grant scheme have also been announced to help fund home improvements, including new insulation, low carbon heating systems or other green technologies.

CRITERIA Small and medium sized enterprises (SME)

“As we get Britain building we are also laying the foundations for a green economic recovery by investing in vital infrastructure for local communities, creating jobs and building environmentally-friendly homes with a huge £1.3 billion investment announced today. “This government is determined to level up all parts of the country and this funding will not only give a much needed boost to our economic recovery, it will help build the good quality, affordable homes the country needs.” - Housing Secretary Rt Hon Robert Jenrick MP - (Stockport projects to get share of £900m Getting Building Fund, 2020).

CLAIMABLE COSTS

£ £

£ £ £

Staff costs (i.e. salaries) Less than 500 staff A turnover of under 100 million euros. Research

GREATER MANCHESTER HOUSING INVESTMENT FUND The R&D relief supports companies that work on innovative projects in science and technology that seek to research or develop and advance in their field.

Prototypes

The GMCA Housing Strategy agreed in June 2019 for all new homes built within city-region to be carbon neutral within 10 years; and the entire city-region aiming for carbon neutrality by 2038. To date the GMCA has invested £445m into residential developments across Greater Manchester. (Greater Manchester Great Homes and Places Summit - Doing Housing Differently - Greater Manchester Housing Providers, 2019).

(Claim Research and Development (R&D) expenditure credit, 2007)

Al+ech is the bridge that can take the future of housing schemes in Manchester to a more prosperous future by combining two of the GMCA goals for housing: Carbon neutral housing and deliver more than 5,500 homes across Greater Manchester. (Bennet, 2018).

Al+ech is able to apply for all the above funds and tax relief from (R&D). These come in form of a cash payment or reduction in the amount of Corporation Tax in which Al+ech pays when we make an annual profit. (Claiming Research and Development tax reliefs, 2007).

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As AL+ECH works towards designing and bringing more sustainable designs to the future of housing whilst supporting the science and tecnology industry and present, alongside our research collaborators, research which strives to create advances in the field of ecodesign.

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2.2 We Design for you

Bridge

Clients

Clients Intention • • •

Governing Body

Establish the clients initial intentions and alighn ourselves with the direct outcome Explore what their original scope is for the development of the project Understand what their aims are in terms of cost, time line projection and any design input

Client

Proposed Aims • • •

Social Investors

Establish the proposed aims for the project Establish how this will relate to thier design requirements Establish how this related to providing a solution to set out purpose

Our focus is to match the requirements to the client in a collective effort to enhance the built environment across the UK. Not just to create living sectors that we can be proud of, but to improve the lives of our residents and potential users. Therefore, it is important that the social and environmental well-being of our users is at the forefront of our design to enrich the communities they serve

Large Corporations

The needs of the client and potential user will ultimately direct our projects.

Social Businesses

We are building algae sustainable homes where tenants do not have to worry about paying bills - our initiatives is to reduce fuel poverty and increase access to energy.

It is sometimes a common theme where ‘most employers and clients have paid little attention to the performance of the architects in construction projects.’ (Yadollahi, Mirghasemi, Mohamad Zin and Singh, 2021) Where at Al+ech, we allow the clients to give direct feedback because we know the performance of our service is always important, ‘because any decision made at the inception of the project will affect the project’s success’.

Residential

Community

Housing

Algae

Social Housing

Resident/ User

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2.2 Business Structure An Overview

Policy + Acts + Funding

Great Manchester Council

Consultation + Aspiration

UK Government

Al+Ech has a multidisciplinary structure, with in house design , management and research department. The design team focuses on housing and social housing, with internal structural and engineering experts, quality surveyors and collaborate with the local planning authorities. The senior staff members are working with project managers, designers, assistants and other staff members from the research department to create sustainable and eco friendly schemes. This collaboration plays a key roll in accessing grants and funding from public and private sector, by demonstrating the efficiency and future sustainability of this approach. The management is looking after the finance, health and safety and human resources and participate with updates to the regulate meetings between the chairman, shareholders and Al+Ech staff members.

Specialist team engineering

Research + technology

Research team

Bio Intelligence Quotient

University

Design department

Management

Architecture

Engineering

All departments interlink and work closely internally as well as with external researcher, practices, manufacturers and specialist teams. This collaborative structure enables to contentiously develop the staff skills and create a large and divers creative and specialist community.

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Human resources

Quantity surveyor

Senior architects

Chairman

Health & safety

ARUP

The research and technology team works with external collaborators, as universities and practices such as ARUP and Bio Intelligence Quotient, to develop a research community which informs the design.

Finance

Senior designers

Team leaders

Architect

Designer

Project manager

Architectural assistant

Interior designer

Design assistant

Cad technician

Shareholders

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2.2 Team Collaboration How We Work Together

To ensure the best design and efficiency is achieved, and everybody is fully engaged and participant, there is a seat at the table for every member. In this way, we ensure that our knowledge and expertise are properly used and valued, and is used to inform our projects. Regular meetings are ensure to distribute evenly the work and responsibilities, involve (to a certain level) each member to different projects, and coverer cash flow examination and management.

Daily

The office layout is open,with some open/enclosed areas, encouraging informal and formal discussions between team members and department. Furthermore, social activities and well-being are very important and are integrated into every-week timetable, celebrating the work with an annual party. Day-trips are conducted to boost the creativity, bond the group and relax.

Daily communication is encouraged by open plan workplace and stand-up meetings. Dedicated areas are for internal social room to ensure well-being and separate meeting rooms.

Weekly meeting are undertaken to ensure everybody know about ongoing projects, tasks are distributed, and each departments presents reports.

Monthly

Weekly

Progress meetings, research reviews, project presentations and management meetings to record the progress. Social activities are incorporated at the end.

Finance, audit, management, research and design meeting discussing about further opportunities and improvements. The day is dedicated for both office related and social day.

Bi-annually

Management Annually

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During the annual meeting are set the yard targets, marketing and branding strategies; audit meetings, presentation. Are set net year targets and improvements. Day ends with a party dedicated for staff members, collaborators and investors, fallowed up by a office day trip.

Research

Design

Our decisions are taken at the table where staff members, collaborators, clients, investors; to give advice and influence the designs. In this way we eliminate the traditional hierarchic and involve everybody in the processes.

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2.2 External Development Learning Programmes

Part of our external development, we provide and participate to relevant conferences, events, CPD’s, collaborate with external people and institutions for research purposes. Part of this, we offer apprenticeships, internships and graduate schemes for students interested in sustainable energy and architecture. Al+ech provides staff members with divers CPDs to introduce all the latest technologies, building materials and sustainable design. Alternatively, presentations from related industries would beneficial too. Meet the Algae by Cambridge University research, Net zero by Global Energy Systems and Technology Limited, potential to have CDP with research labs, engineering firms, professions with algae tech background. Furthermore, we desire to share our knowledge and expertises, conducting our own CPDs. Our targets are practices interested in sustainable/alternative energy, algae use in architecture.

The apprenticeships and internships educate students about alternative/ renewable energy, and the potential of algae. This hand on experience is beneficial for the prospective students to see the different paths they can choose for university studies, and careers. There are opportunities to work collaboratively with associations as the Science & Plants for Schools: using green algae in Lab (GCSE and A level students). Our internships are focused on introducing the basics of the firm, allow students to work on real projects, attend to client meetings and get experience on each aspect of an architectural office. While, the graduate scheme provides Part I and Part II placements working on all RIBA stages, participate to client meetings, conferences. CPD’s and site visits.

Apprenticeship Program: We offer summer apprenticeship for GCSE and A level students interested in architecture, sustainability and technology. They have the opportunity to learn about the practice and the wider context of the industry.

Schools and Universities

“The RIBA Essential CPD programme will help you maintain competenice, acquire new skills, contend with disruption, future-proof yourselves and your businesses, and deliver socially purposeful architecture.” (RIBA Essential CPD 2019, 2019).

CPD RIBA, university, industry

Technology

Sustainability

Materiality

A new community

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Internship Program: We offer RIBA mentoring and three month internships for university students in collaboration with universities and RIBA to introduce algae technology, to ensure sustainable design approach and employment perspective.

Research Collaborations: We are working with universities, practices and other industries to research a wide variety of opportunities and innovations. Different collaboration variations occure depending on the type of research: collaboration between same/different department, different industries, join other research groups, or collaborate internationally.

Collaboration with specialists: To deliver the best quality and most efficient housing skemes, our team is working closely with manufacturers and product design departments. Conducting and attending to relevant workshops, CPDs and conferences sustainable ideas can be shared and fructified, while creating a new creative community.

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2.3 Marketing

Maximising the use of Digital Marketing At AL+ECH, we marketed our services and products through various medium intended to our target audiences. Our marketing and research team work together in making sure we reach public engagements which could potentially contribute to our business expansion.

Digital Technology Nowadays, online marketing has started to become the strategies to promote and increase the profits of organizations (Sotnikova, 2016). Digital marketing through social media is one of the ways to interact with potential clients. We monitor our public engagements through the uploaded contents across all social media platforms. Our website contains beneficial informations to the users with interesting user-interface. New contents on micro-algae are being uploaded monthly to maintain the engagements with the public. We have user-friendly interface as well as mobilefriendly as people spend more times on their mobile phone and it’s a great advantage for potential investors or collaborators.

Virtual tour We provide virtual experiences to our potential investors and clients because time is precious! Virtual tours could allow them to watch the preview of our micro-algae homes. The virtual tours can be easily accessed on our website along with the specifications and details.

Industrial outreach We are able to engage with other people in this industry through public conventions. Conventions and seminars are good exposure for us as we get to introduce ourselves to the industrial leaders and research collaborators.

Educational outreach We aimed to promote the knowledge on microalgae as well as our products through educational outreach. Aside of collaborating with research department of the university, we are also being invited to hold seminars and educational forum to higher institutions to educate students, which sometimes open to public. Our electronic publications can also be purchased through monthly subscriptions. The e-pubs are available for readers and investors on our website as it allows them to get to know us better. Through these marketing strategy, we are able to expand our business network and explore more potential outside our ranges in the future. Paid advertisements with high quality animated videos allow more people to engage with us. The advertisements will usually redirect them to our website where they can find more informations they needed.

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side of the needs of knowledge industries in promoting the advantages of microalgae homes, collaborating with research and products companies are expected to expand the potential of our products to the public. Therefore, we also aimed to collaborate with potential research and product makers such as ARUP, an independent firm producing the world’s first bioreactive facade which generates renewable energy from algal biomass and solar thermal heat.

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2.4 What we Offer Towards a Green Future

At Al+ech, We Offer Eco-Friendly Energy For A Better Future. As the global population increases, so too does energy demand. The threat of climate change means that there is an urgent need to find cleaner, renewable alternatives to fossil fuels that do not contribute extensive amounts of greenhouse gases with potentially devastating consequences on our ecosystem. At Al+ech, our approach will be on the Net Zero Carbon Homes and commercializing Sustainable Energy towards the future. Our practice focussing on design collaboration with different specialization throughout three main departments of Design, Research & Development and Technology. We specialized in integrating the Microalgae Panel from the beginning of the design stage until the construction phase. We aim to have this opportunity to restructure the traditional housing development into an eco-friendly environment starting from the year of 2020.

“Plants, algae and photosynthetic bacteria are the oldest, most common and effective solar panels on our planet.”

Our Approach

Collaboration

Microalgae Closed-Loop System

Our Product

Net Zero Carbon Homes

Focussing on design intervention through multi-disciplinary collaboration teams.

Photosynthesis In Microalgae

Al+ech Integrated Home Design

Design Algae Facade

Al+ech

Algae Roof Panel

Research & Development

Algae Glass Panel Technology

Electricity & Thermal HeatSustainable Energy

- Dr Paolo Bombelli, University of Cambridge.

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2.4 The Future is Green

Economical

Algae Becomes the Answer for Energy and Housing Crisis

Overview

Algae are able to capture up to 95% of available light & way better than even our most efficient solar panels David Nield, ScienceAlert.

Urban facades and roofs represent billions of square meters that instead of being made of an inanimate material such as concrete, could become clever photosynthetic surfaces that respond to the current state of climate warming. Ten times more efficient photosynthetic machines compared to large trees and grasses.

Micro-algae can help in absorbing carbon dioxide and producing oxygen, while acting as a second skin of buildings, boosting passive cooling and increasing shading of the facade. It grows 10 times more rapidly than terrestrial plants, and less than a tenth of the land is needed to produce an equivalent amount of biomass.

Fast growing microalgae can be used as a dynamic sun shading and generate renewable energy at the same time. The biomass concentration dictates how much light can pass through the panels and it increases with higher solar intensities.

Building are designed to improve the carbon footprint by lowering the amount of embodied carbon adding a whole new meaning to the term ‘green building’.

The rapid growing population of the world continuously increases the global demand for fuel energy. Microalgae are tiny factories and renewable, sustainable and economical sources of biofuels.

Algae can represent an important part of creating a healthy and livable planet. Algae produced energy that is cheaper, more reliable and safer for the environment. Through bettering quality of air, via decrease in air-borne pollutants, humidification, as well as superior oxygen and carbon dioxide balance.

Efficient

Renewable

Sustainable 40

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2.4 Our Competitors

Becoming the Leading Standard for Sustainable Homes As we are considered as the first architectural firms who offers algae technology homes in promoting renewable energy as a solution to future housing system, our competitors are limited. However, there are a number of companies with the same vision and interest in sustainable homes that could be seen as relevant competitors. It is about establishing an identity that can out do our competitors. “having a narrative, and creating the best perception of ourselvs in the mind of the client” can create a reality and a strong reason to choose us over our competitors. (Iddon, 2020: Presentation Marketing for Architects).

Expertise Europe’s leading manufacturer of a Low Energy Building System in promoting sustainable environmental awareness, health and safety.

Design a new build Passivhaus Renovate an existing property into an eco-friendly house

Design services, supply and build eco-friendly, pre-engineered low energy timber framed homes

Key factors Complete building system to form the ideal energy efficient building: Thermowall

Thermoboard

Thermofloor

Thermoroof

A mechanical ventilation system, with an air to air heat recovery component

Stale air leaving the house is carrying the ‘free’ heat, goes through the heat recovery ventilator and transfers the heat

The cool, exterior fresh air comes into the heat recovery ventilator, picks up the “free” heat and goes into the home

Eco homes Approach to passive house brings low energy housing.

Off-site construction Increased savings on time, labour and waste on site.

Timber Framed Fast, cost effective solutions with renewable resources

Building system 1. Energy efficient 2. Structurally robust 3. Provide a complete building solution

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1. Passivhaus with better insulation 2. Air-tightness, windows and ventilation 3. Less expensive backup heating system 4. Energy efficient 5. Long-term saving on energy bills

Both open and closed panel system incorporating airtight timber framed design.

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2.5 Ready for the Take-off? Projected Growth in the Market

Why you should Invest in Algae Technology? From production to combustion, this renewable energy source can grow on limited amounts of land.

Figure 1 - Global share of energy consumption (Pickl, 2019) As it stands, it was seemed that renewable energy activities were rather focussed on solar photovoltaic and fuels. However, more lately the push towards becoming a full range of energy and renewable player has included strategic investments in energy storage, energy efficiency, wind and electricity retail. (Pickl, 2019). This means there is a diverse range of sectors, where algae renewable energy can be utilised in.

Year-round Harvest Algae can be harvested repeatedly throughout the year.

Algae Consumes Co2

High Yield Each acre of algae yields more than

7,570L Water

Algae can be grown in seawater and industrial effluent

Algae acts as a carbon capture.

Engine Ready

Figure 2 - Oil Yield Comparision This graph shows how algae has the most oil yield per acre. These high yield can be attributed to algae’s high growth rate, which is often monitored in hours instead of days. This investment means that buying algae is value for money as it shows higher return in terms of cost per acre. The future is economically viable from a commercial market perspective, where ‘zero net present value’ can be achieved if insist on algae being the future for our source of energy. (Patel, 2015)

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Interpretation of forbes.com ‘See how algae could change our world’ (Kite-Powell, 2021).

Algae-derived diesal can be pumped into existing diesal cars.

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2.5 Algae Cost

A Comparison between Products, Yield, Operational & Environmental Impact

Commercial Algae Project Economic Viability Lines (Hassannia, 2009)

Algae Cultivation Method Table (Proksch, 2013)

25 g/m2-day, $500/ton

Environmental Impact Operational Factors Economic Factors

Yield Operating Initial Cost (g/m2/day) Costs

- Assuming 20 year project life

Open low 10-25 Pond System Bioreactor Mod. Up Vertial to 50 Low-Tech

Contam. Water Use Threat

Energy Use

Land Use

Low*

High

Low*

High

Mod.

Low*

Mod.

Low*

ColtGroup High* 50High-Tech 60

High

Mod*

Low*

Mod.

Low*

Triangle Very High* 80-100 Reactor

Mod.

Mod*

Low*

Mod.

Low*

* = Positive

The figure above provides for a very powerful and intuitive tool to understand the economic challenges facing the algae biofuels market. “The green line represents achieving almost twice the $/ton sales price of algae biomass. How is this possible? Using the same assumptions as earlier, algal oil would have to be sold for prices in excess of $6/gallon – which could be possible should corresponding petroleum prices reach these levels. Alternatively, this could be achieved by focusing on strains and production architectures that extract other, higher-value components from the algae” (Hassannia, 2009). It means that, we are in the best interest to focus on bioenergy goals as this is the most high value extraction from algae. By assessing the viability of the algae projects from a true market perspective, it is clearly apparent that total installed costs and O&M costs will be a major hurdle to future commercialisation. Technologies must be developed to reduce costs and increase yields. ‘The industry should consider business models that not only look at bioenergy potential of algae, but also should consider higher value products in order to make the economics achievable.’ (Hassannia, 2009). This is why we have focussed on the real estate sector as this is believed to be generally good investment for core assets in the emerging market trends. (Is UK Real Estate still a good Investment?, 2019).

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Integrating Algae Systems into Building Design: “In 2009 the Institute of Mechanical Engineers recommended integrating algae cultivation into the building stock as a strategy to deal with climate change.” (Proksch, 2013) It might be said that the cost of Algal Technology is expensive. However, the margins of start up costs always seems to ‘break-even’ because of the long term benefits of installing such technology as water and electrical is reduced from using DC/AC and normal gas outlets. Making the benefits worth while such as tax releif, lower energy bills, low environmental impacts & carbon credits. (Hassannia, 2009). “When integrating algae cultivation in cities or areas of higher density and land cost, bioreactors are the resource friendly technology of choice to minimize the area needed, while increasing the yields by 5-10 times.” (Proksch, 2013). Therefore, opens up a new economic opportunities for arid and urban areas where our systems do not require much land use.

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2.5 Financial Strategy Initial Cost Overview

Initially calculated costs for start-up would amount to an estimate of £ 504 620, in consideration of having a commercial office space and new inventory and equipments. However looking into the RIBA Business Benchmark report of 2020, current firms are facing a downward trend in Revenues. Adding on the current global Economic recession due to the Covid 19 Pandemic, a more realistic goal need to be met in terms of what kind of operations the company will have. In consideration of travel restrictions and office space social distancing rules, possibly a scheduled timing of office usage can be applied, which means that we could go for a smaller office space or possibly use a shared co-working space (around £350 per month). Even, possibly working from home! With most discussions happening online via video conferencing. This will also reduce the amount needed for paying reoccurring bills such as electricity, water, wifi and telephone bill costs. We could also rule out that marketing costs such as physical workshops and physical marketing is not possible as gathering crowds of student and lockdowns of universities hinder the possibility of physical collaboration. Thus most costs for marketing will be used for the website and online advertising and media coverage. Workshops and discussion will be moved via online platform and conference. Further savings can also be established by having second hand equipments like plotter machines, printer and furniture. Thus with these considerations, possible savings can be established around £46 400.

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2.5 Fee Structure Design-Build Fee Strategy Overview Al +ech is a n architectural practice that rely on design, consulting and workshops with public engagement to be the core services provided. Al +ech with collaboration with the engineering team of ARUP BIQ and COLT Group, creates a complete design , manufacture and construction team. Therefore providing a total ‘ in house’ service which may not require any Tender or Bid of contractors for the projects. Thus having a Design and Build type contract would be the most viable type of procurement contract. The client will only need to engage with Al +ech’s Architect, and as they say the rest is history. I meant, that the Architect will handle everything, from engaging a contractor, consulting engineer, council, fire safety and etc. The engagement and collaboration that the Architect plan to have must however be informed and approved by the client. Though any client that engages with Al +ech will be clearly explained about the type of technology being used will be from specialist and collaboration with ARUP BIQ and COLT Group.

The Strategy Following the Fee structure of 2PM, an Architecture firm. The fees are being charged based on the level of completion in every RIBA plan of Work stages. Design Brief (stage 1) , Concept Design (stage 2), and Planning Design (stage 3) of RIBA Plan of Work can be grouped into the Planning stage. In this stage, 25% of total fees is being charged. Al +ech will bare the costs of consulting with respected collaborators such as ARUP and COLT for their engineering and Micro Algae expertise. Technical Design (stage 4) of RIBA Plan of work, is focused on the Building Regulation Stage where 35% of total fees is being charged to the client. Finally at the Construction stage (Stage 5) and Completion (stage 6), which falls under the Construction stage, the final 40% from the total fees is being charged from the client. Overall the Architects fee will be 8 - 15% of the total project costs. This will depend on the project complexity, level of detail, expertise,number of staff involvement and scope of work being done. The fee calculation could be based on 3 methods: 1) Percentage This is useful for the scale of work that is still unknown, thus the fees is flexible and can go up or down depending on the amount of work. Proper fees calculation need to be done for each stage, that are set from the percentage of the construction cost. 2) Fixed Cost As the name suggest, the amount of fees are fixed at set amounts of each stage of the project. This is easy for the client paying as the amount is clear, however it may not be possible if the scope of the project is not yet clear. 3) Time Charge These are fees that are calculated and charged from the amount of time spent on the project at each stage, at the architect’s agreed hourly rate. A cap on the overall amount at an agreed level can also be combined. Proper documentation and recording of work is needed to prove the hours being worked on the project. Source : https://2pm-architects.co.uk/architects-fees/

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2.5 SWOT Analysis Implementing SWOT into Al+ech

‘Businesses can use a SWOT analysis to improve their market competitiveness and resilience.’ (SWOT analysis, 2020)

By analysing and planning the SWOT analysis, the important elements in planning stages which is the strength, weakness, opportunity and threat can be identified. Through this analysis, AL+ECH is able to conduct and navigate any potential risks.

Research led design

As our design team works closely with in house research department, we established our design standard at the highest level to ensure the quality and satisfaction.

Sustainable energy

AL+ECH is specialized in micro-algae research study. We conduct a detailed, thorough study since 2019 along with our investor and collaborator in order to strengthen our niche in sustainable energy through micro-algae.

Strategic collaboration

We collaborated with University of Manchester Faculty of Humanities Environmental Sustainability Research Department in delevoping the studies as well as promoting the knowledge to the students and also public.

Technology innovator

Employability

The current microalgae market haven’t being fully explored by other companies which gives us vast advantages as the pioneer

W 52

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Lack of exposure

Micro-algae subject is considered as new due to the lack of exposure and awareness on its importance.

Minimum connection

Since AL+ECH is established for only near two years now, the connection with potential partners and investors might be limited.

No venture capital

The unavailability of funding required to test the potential of the reusable energy.

Research depth

The research depth is not apparent due to poor number of researching activities.

As sustainability is an evergreen topic in this industry, it could create more job opportunities especially for people with the demanded skills and experiences.

Working division

Our structure division has been established with broad, standardised roles with the potential to be expanded.

Barrier entry

The barrier of market entry is low as we are one of the technology innovator.

Product practicality

Our aim in solving climate change could contribute in technology industry as the product technology could be further explored in various medium.

Widen scope

Promoting the knowledge on micro-algae by educating the public in phases, starting with institutions to wider industrial scope

Political regulations

As our design team works closely with in house research department, we established our design standard at the highest level to ensure the quality and satisfaction.

Social awareness

The tendency of rejection as there might be low social awareness and exposure level in this subject especially among the investors or collaborators.

Technology widespread

The limited capability of technology collaborators could affect the funding of the project demonstration as well as in processing the demand.

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2.6 PESTLE Analysis Implementing Pestle

The political and legal aspects of the ecodesign industry in the UK are driven by directives developed by the Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government and The Rt Hon Christopher Pincher MP.

Emergence of innovative technologies can have a positive and negative impacts on our company. (Bush, 2021). These factors can help us with further understanding the possibilities of Algae and how we can optimise this source of energy to the fullest. However, competitive companies in the industry can use these technological advances to divert our work. Al+ech works alongside experts to optimise results and upgrade our designs.

OLITICAL

Together, are looking to achieve new targets for the green building revolution where all homes and businesses, will have to meet rigorous new efficiency standards to lower energy consumption and bills, in order to help protect the environment (announced by the Housing minister Chris Pincher on January 19th 2021). (The Ecodesign for Energy-Related Products and Energy Information (Amendment) (EU Exit) Regulations 2020, 2019). The government has set out plans to radically improve the energy performance of new homes by 2025. Furthermore, the UK is still bound to the European Union policy covering green building under the Ecodesign for energy-related products regulations (EU Exit) Regulations 2019. Politically, there are several factors impacting the national ecodesign market, including tax policies, the possible policies changes due to Brexit and costs associated.

CONOMICAL

As mentioned, the political aspect influences the economics of the ecodesign industry however, the current economic climate in the industry is a threat that Al+ech must consider. Economic carelessness has a significant impact on how profitable the industry is or can be. Al+ech considers the effects this might have on its funders and investors. Governmental funding may vary as a result of Brexit as this money might get redirected to other public services and financial aid. Though the UK still operates under the Ecodesign for energy-related products regulations (EU Exit) Regulations 2019. It is hard to predict what will the changes be (in terms of planing and funding) as well as when it will happen. This also has a negative impact on the trade barriers between the UK and overseas collaborators.

(Achinas, Horjus, Achinas and Euverink, 2019)

ECHNOLOGICAL

EGISLATIVE

Al+ech is aware of all the legislative factors that can influence the company, for that end we will be working closely with planners and responsible entities to assure the project progresses as expected. Other factors that can have an impact on the company are access to resources, grid access and supply, ownership and local frameworks, etc. all which will be closely monitored to assure the safety of the company, industry as well as the consumer law and safety standards.

NVIRONMENTAL

The development of ecodesign industry with Algae has a positive impact on the sustainable housing issues in terms of the impact that housing has on climate change. From construction to residents consumption, Al+ech works with specialised companies to assure its maximum potential. With the growing concern for the climate change, the search for more sustainable solutions has increased over the years. By working with specialist our design team is able to meet the popular demand and bring to life a sustainable yet modern way of living.

OCIAL

Our target market predominantly consists of development companies within the ‘green’ building and ecodesign sectors. Al+ech ultimate goal is to connect sustainable design and deliver it across the country, in order to help every resident to live in a better, self-sufficient way, and to create a more direct tunnel from the Al+ech to the builder and then the society. We are continuously seeking to be up to date with upcoming technologies, social trends and customer consumption and reviews, allowing us to direct our focus to the common future.

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Concept Drawings

3.0 Design-Build Rethinking Procurement

Concept Drawings

Single Contractual Agreement

Detail Drawings

Bid Expertise overlaps and adapts to all kinds of projects The Efficiency of Design-Build The reason why our method is successful compared to traditional construction method is because we use one product throughout all scales and projects, and is very adaptable for contractors to recognise and adjust with the process. Furthermore, it is mentioned that it reduces the product development time, production and development costs and improves ability to upgrade products. (Emmatty and Sarmah, 2012). There is no disturbance in the

design and construction process. Every home is ready to go.

The clients also reduces their risks within the the procurement method. As the contract is under a single agreement the client will have certainty and confidence that the contractor is able to meet the requirement. In the future, if we were going as developers, we have confidence that ‘it is is intended to deliver cost efficiency and avoid overlapping responsibilities by harnessing appropriate levels of design expertise; for example concept design by an architect and detail design by a specialist manufacturer/contractor’, (Dan, 2020).

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One Product less risk for increased consultants

Detail Drawings

Construction

Consistency in the building programme

An Example of what to expect on how Developers such as House, Urban Splash are adapting to Design and Build Procurements

Speed

20-50% reduction to build programme

Cost

Potential for 20% build cost reduction 25% saving on running costs

Cost certainity

Out-turn cost within 2% of tendered price

Quality

Reduced snagging

Sustainability

90% Reduction in construction waste 60% Saving in CO2 emmissions

Productivity

80% reduction in site based labour 25% overall reduction in labour

Customer experience

Oppurtunity to introduce “mass customisation”

Figure: House Urban-Splash initiatives for implementing DfMA Construction

Construction

Design-Build Method

In terms of cost, it allows the client a certain amount of control as the contractor agrees to take on responsibility for the design and construction for a pre-agreed fee. Since the contractor takes control over the goods manufactured, the manufactured components would be re-

Traditional Method

garded as ‘goods’ under the Sale of Goods Act and Supply of Goods and Services Act so that the implied warranties of satisfactory qualities apply. Employers may require warranties for any defects as to quality of the components. (The panacea of off-site construction and DfMA - what legal risks?, 2020).

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3.1 Procurement

Design and Build Procurement Route

Traditional Method Client

Architect

The decline of traditional contracts has come to the realisation that everyone wants a complex building that is, cheap, has great financial planning beforehand, increased design efficiency. This pressure has led to clients disappointed with traditional route. ‘Furthermore, there is considerable evidence of clients dissatisfaction and widespread disputes and conflicts over apportionment of risks and time overrun of projects’. (Boudjabeur, 1997). We offer a ‘complete package’ to remove the headache of full responsibility of a project. ‘Design and build brings a new dimension to building procurement in that it is structured, primarily in the interests of the client, towards giving him/her an improved deal and with far greater emphasis upon the client obtaining better value for money. It provides the necessary multi-disciplinary approach and integration because it forms a designer-contractor team at an early stage in the process, and thus, it vests authority, and so responsibility, for both the design and construction with one organisation, the contracting side of the industry, from initial briefing to the production of the finished building.’ (Boudjabeur, 1997).

Concept: In this case, a concept would be familiarised since it is still modularised units. However, costs and preliminary contractor bids are short at this stage.

Cost Established: This is where the time has been wasted looking for contractors who can take on the build. There is also risk in building estimated fees, most of the time, fees are overrun because of wrong evaluation from the start. (Boudjabeur, 1997). Contractor Clients and Construction: Client is in a much higher risk in overrunning the cost of the construction.

Design-Build Package Client

Architect Concept: We already are in a position where we can use existing drawings to. However, the client/tenants are able to have control over room layouts, additional extras and overall finishing of the modular homes. The headache of starting from scratch is essentially missing as clients will already know how the scheme will look before hand. All construction process under a single point of control.

Contractor

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Package Deal: This is the traditional form of design and build where client is involved in relatively little design, and a contractor is appointed to undertake the principal part of the design and construct the work. (Boudjabeur, 1997). This allows us to have great financial planning way ahead of the final complete build as our chosen contractor will have the experience and vast knowledge of the things needed to complete the building.

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3.2 The Process RIBA Plan of Works 2020

Traditional Construction Method Concept

Feasibility

Funding

Site Preparation

Design & Engineering

Al+ech Way Concept

Feasibility

Funding

We get our first order, client chooses type of home, or our design team will suggest ideas. If we are the developer of the scheme,we work with the future tenants to customise their house

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We submit for Planning Permission and gain Building Control Consent.

Our Method of Procurement ‘The RIBA Plan of Works provides shared framework for design and construction that offers both a process map and a management tool.’ (RIBA plan of work, 2020). It is a widely adaptable framework that is currently in use in most construction industry, we at Al+ech and our partners are familiar with the stages so we all able to evolve in a plan that is easy to follow. Since our house design are modules, the process is very quick from 0-7 stages compared to the Traditional Construction Methods, ‘Minimising and simplifying the number of parts,

20-50% Faster

Assembly Fit-out & Finishing Completion

Testing & Commissioning

Issue contracts out to all parties involved after we issue drawings out to tender

Stage 2

Completion

Manufacture

We check if they are eligible and have a source of funding in place.

Stage 1

Testing & Commisioning

Site Preparation

Check to see if its feasible

We gather all the information of the site, context, Business Case, Clients Requirements etc.

Stage 0

Yes

Fit-out & Finishing

We use our main contractors to erect our buildings for us. A single Procurement method where both design and construction happens under a single contractual agreement.

Design & Engineering

Construction

Stage 3

Stage 4

Stage 5

Stage 6

including weight and transport can decrease complexity in a project. These strategies can directly reduce cost, time, and waste in both manufacture and assembly. As future architects, we have a capabilities to reduce carbon emission by outlining and suggesting other alternatives to optimise sustainable coordination.’ (Lu et al., 2020).

As we running a practice, we maintain a trustworthy environment with the people we are working with. It is in our nature to issue contracts such as JCT/NEC, or any legal documents that can provide protection for Main contractors, Subcontractors and Building Employers and used to prevent disputes. By formally recording such matters in writing the assumptions and ambiguity are removed, prevents the likelihood of disputes. This compared to verbal contracts cannot be compared. (White, 2020). We offer Design and Build Contract as it ‘offers advantageous in terms of time as it allows the overlap of design and construction reducing the overall project delivery time.’ (Design and build - pros and cons, 2020).

Stage 7

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3.3 Production Strategy Design for Manufacture and Assembly (DfMA)

Conceptual

Architects & Designers

Research & Technology

Manufacturing Engineers

Financial & Management

Preliminary Design Stage

Customization & Modular Design

Cost Effectiveness

By using fewer parts, decreasing and reducing the number of unique parts.

Significantly lower the cost of assembly.

Design for Manufacture (DFM)

A B

DFM involves designing for the ease of manufacture of a product’s constituent parts. It is concerned with selecting the most cost-effective materials and processes to be used in production, and minimising the complexity of the manufacturing operations. Design for Assembly (DFA) DFA involves design for a product’s ease of assembly. It is concerned with reducing the product assembly cost and minimising the number of assembly operations. Both DFM and DFA seek to reduce material, overhead, and labour costs.

Client - Consultant Meeting

Al+ech Design Strategy Minimise the number of components in each algae panel : Thereby reducing assembly and ordering costs, reducing work-in-process, and simplifying automation. Design for ease of part-fabrication : The geometry of parts is simplified and unnecessary features are avoided.

Design Manufacturing

Design Through Prefabrication

Reduction in Transportation

Shortens Assembly Time

Reduction in Failure

Reduced programme on-site through the use of prefabricated elements.

Greater efficiency in site logistics, and a reduction in vehicle movements transporting materials to site.

Utilising standard assembly practices such as vertical assembly and self-aligning parts.

Increases reliability by lowering the number of parts.

Tolerances of parts : Part should be designed to be within process capability. Clarity : Components should be designed so they can only be assembled one way. Design for ease of assembly : For example, the use of snap-fits and adhesive bonding rather than threaded fasteners such as nuts and bolts. Where possible a product should be designed with a base component for locating other components quickly and accurately. Eliminate or reduce required adjustments : Designing adjustments into a product means there are more opportunities for out-of-adjustment conditions to arise.

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Safety Compliance

Labour Health & Safety

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Group BB Al+ech

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