More flexible work practices and an increasing reliance on the Internet, e-business and e-commerce mean that IT and communications technology is becoming as much a public utility as gas, water and electricity. We expect systems to be available when and where we want them and to be adaptable to ever-increasing demands. From offices and shops to hotels and leisure complexes, all depend on IT systems to communicate information and ideas and provide more choice, comfort and enjoyment.

Buro Happold’s expertise in this area spans the complete range of IT and communications technology. As experienced IT management and infrastructure consultants, we recognise that clients need professional help in selecting appropriate IT infrastructure from a bewildering array of potential solutions. We aim to deliver cost-effective and practical strategies that meet the needs of people and business while satisfying architectural aspirations.

A growing dependence on technology in today’s knowledge-based workplace means that IT support systems need to provide a high degree of robustness and reliability. Buro Happold takes a holistic approach, identifying where we can create value by aligning the technology strategy to an organisation’s processes and structures. We aim to provide a high level of integration with the engineering objectives, designing structured systems to seamlessly deliver voice, data and multimedia.

Working closely with the project team, our client and their IT department, we assess how technology can benefit the design solution and deal with the ‘practical’ issues – for example, we advise on spatial arrangements such as raised floors, comms rooms and raceways. In addition to IT networks and communication connectivity we also provide expertise in control systems such as building security. Throughout, our goal is to maximise the value of the installed systems and create a truly ‘intelligent’ building.

Buro Happold's technology integration team is at the forefront of audio-visual, acoustics, building integration, IT and security consultancy. Our multi-disciplinary approach enables us to add value by augmenting other key skills during the various phases of design and development. With the focus now on flexible, integrated services, we provide the vital connectivity and support for today’s knowledge-based workplace.