Our Solutions

DesignAssist™ Architectural Support

Design Assist™

Our Architectural
Solutions

DesignAssist™ is your personal building envelope consultant, offering decades of experience and technical expertise to support every aspect of your project. We go beyond thermal considerations, addressing fire safety, structural integrity, and acoustics to ensure your building envelope meets comprehensive performance standards. Our team simplifies complex regulations by translating the latest SANS guidelines into clear, actionable plans with in-depth specifications. Say goodbye to confusing schematics; we provide concise standard system and detail drawings that integrate seamlessly with your design. With transparent and competitive budget quotations, you can manage costs confidently from the start. Plus, we bring your project to life with samples of high-quality building envelope materials and systems, helping you make informed, hands-on choices for both performance and aesthetics.

The Power of Early Collaboration:
DesignAssist™ isn’t just about throwing materials and a crew your way. We believe in true collaboration, becoming an extension of your team.

Solutions

Our technology bridges the gap between scan data and your design process. We specialise in transforming point clouds using advanced subsampling and automated structural element detection. This allows for efficient conversion into standard drawing formats compatible with Revit and AutoCAD.

Leveraging Cutting-Edge Technologies:

  • Drone Integration: We utilise drones to efficiently capture vast areas and high-rise structures. Drones provide a safe and cost-effective way to collect data, minimising the need for scaffolding or personnel access to dangerous areas.
  • LiDAR Scanning: Our process incorporates LiDAR scanners, which capture highly detailed point clouds. This meticulous data allows us to identify intricate details like connections and steel members, which is crucial for accurate modelling.
  • SLAM Mapping: We employ SLAM (Simultaneous Localization and Mapping) technology to generate floor plans and architectural layouts. SLAM creates real-time maps of the environment, streamlining the process for capturing complex geometries.

Our ‘world-class’ non-evasive technical roof inspections provide a holistic review of your build envelope backed with a detailed photographic report to ensure the stakeholders are well-informed for decision-making.

Non-Evasive Site Inspection, Data Processing & Reporting:

  • Visual inspection of readily accessible roof elements from a safe vantage point focused on key areas like roof penetrations, flashings, seams, drainage systems, and potential problem areas, providing key data on the building envelope’s ability to perform.
  • High-resolution images are stitched together to create a comprehensive roof map. All issues are clearly marked on the map with detailed annotations and photographs.
  • The photographic technical report is generated, outlining observations, potential problems, and recommendations for further action, all aligned with the latest SANS regulations and best practices.

We utilise the South African National Standards to create typical technical specifications for building envelopes. These specifications outline the building’s exterior enclosure requirements, ensuring it meets performance standards for durability, weather resistance, energy efficiency, and occupant comfort.

Key Points

  • Standardisation: We leverage SANS, a recognised set of national standards, to ensure consistency and quality in their building envelope specifications. This approach promotes adherence to best practices and simplifies the construction process.
  • Performance-Based Design: SANS standards likely focus on achieving specific performance outcomes rather than prescribing rigid methods or materials. This allows for flexibility and innovation in design solutions while guaranteeing the desired building envelope performance.
  • Tailored Specifications: MRC Group can adapt the SANS standards to suit the unique requirements of each project. Factors like location, building type, and intended use can influence the specific envelope performance criteria.
  • Quality Assurance: By referencing SANS standards, MRC Group establishes a benchmark for quality control during construction. This promotes the use of suitable materials, proper installation techniques, and adherence to design intent.