The latest news from Richard Herrmann Associates

One of the most common reasons a structural engineering quote comes back higher than expected — or takes longer than it should — is simply that the engineer didn't have enough information to price the job accurately. The more context you can provide upfront, the tighter and more reliable the quote will be. Here's what's genuinely useful to send. Drawings, even if they're not final Existing floor plans, elevations, or a concept sketch from an architect or client all help. They

Choosing a structural engineer is rarely a like-for-like comparison. Two firms can quote for the same commercial project and offer very different levels of service, experience, and risk. The problem is that these differences are hard to see on paper — a proposal can look thorough right up until the project hits its first complication. Asking the right questions upfront is the simplest way to avoid an expensive mismatch later. Here's what's worth asking. Have you worked on pro

Structural inspections are often commissioned when something appears wrong, such as cracking, movement, deterioration or maybe just planned alterations uncover something unexpected. In many cases the issue is not unusual, but understanding what defects mean, and when they matter, is essential. Below are some of the most common structural defects identified during inspections. Movement cracking patterns Cracking is one of the most frequent concerns. However, not all cracking

If you've requested proposals from a few structural engineering firms for the same commercial project, you've probably noticed something frustrating: the fees don't just differ, they can differ by a factor of two or three. It's tempting to assume the lowest number represents the best value, but fee variation in structural engineering almost always reflects real differences in what's being offered. Understanding those differences will help you compare proposals properly and av

Every architect has had the phone call. It's usually a few weeks after the structural engineer received the latest set of drawings, and it starts with some version of: "So, about that cantilever…" A scheme that's hard to engineer isn't necessarily a bad scheme. But it often becomes a slower, more expensive, and more compromised one — because problems that could have been solved with a pencil at concept stage end up being solved with steel, money, and goodwill much later on. T

Transforming an old farming storage building into a modern commercial space is a challenge that combines creativity, sustainability, and practical design. This transformation not only breathes new life into a structure once used for storing crops and equipment but also creates a functional, energy-efficient environment suited for today’s business needs. This post explores the process, key considerations, and benefits of converting a barn-like storage building into a contempor

We are very pleased to announce that RHA has been appointed to assist Eco2 Management Services with the replacement of several wind turbines at the Port of Tilbury docks. This project enhances the sustainability and efficiency of renewable energy production in the region. The Port of Tilbury, being one of the major ports in the UK, plays a crucial role in the logistics and distribution sectors, and the improvement of the existing wind turbines that contribute up to 84% of the

Refurbishment and alteration projects carry a level of uncertainty that does not exist in new construction projects. The single biggest unknown is the existing structure, what is actually there, how it behaves and whether it will perform as assumed or required for the proposed scheme. Understanding and managing this uncertainty is central to successful refurbishment. The concealed structure problem Much of a building’s structure is concealed. Load paths, connections, bearing

We are thrilled to be embarking on a new relationship with Fen Group Ltd, Cambridgeshire's leading water and land management company. Fen Group is a trusted name in water and land management services with over 40 years experience in offering land drainage and water management solutions for the agricultural community, private clients, land managers, charities, nature estates, Internal Drainage Boards and consultants and are recommended by clients as diverse as the RSPB, the Sa

Structural engineers are often associated with any building work, but the reality is more nuanced. There are situations where engineering input adds little value — and we find that being honest and clear about this builds trust with our clients and helps them to make better decisions. Situations where engineering adds little value Structural input is generally unnecessary where works do not affect loadbearing elements or alter how loads are transferred through a building. Typ

Many clients understand that a structural engineer is required for calculations, but the role is broader than that. A structural engineer is involved throughout the life of a project — helping shape the design, manage risk, coordinate information and support delivery on site. Project stages: from concept to construction Structural input typically begins at concept stage . At this point, the focus is on feasibility and economy: structural layout, spans, stability approach, f

We are delighted to announce that Richard Herrmann Associates Ltd has achieved the prestigious SafeContractor certification, a milestone that underscores our commitment to maintaining the highest standards of operational excellence. This certification not only aligns with the Common Assessment Standard (CAS) but also plays a crucial role in supporting compliance with the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations , and demonstrating 'Competance' in line with the require

We are delighted to be providing our support to this local school with our contribution of a new pitchside banner. This state-of-the-art facility will undoubtedly enhance the physical education programs offered at the school, providing students with the opportunity to participate in a variety of sports, including football, hockey, and other athletic activities, regardless of the weather conditions. We believe that access to high-quality sports facilities is essential for fost

RHA are very pleased to be providing our varied consultancy services to KITE Utility Services Ltd to assist their client, Anglian Water in upgrading and maintaining the vast networks of pipes, treatment works, and sewers. KITE are a civil, mechanical, electrical and pump engineering maintenance, repair, and installation company, with over 25 years experience specifically within the water and wastewater industry. Their team of qualified and competent engineers have a proven r

We were appointed to assist with the creation of two new fire escape staircases to serve parts of the King's School at Ely. The architects, Hollins Architects, had designed an aesthetic, glass-balustraded, steel-framed staircase. Our experience in providing the structural design of staircases that must be robust while achieving the architect's vision meant that we knew how to commence and what to prioritise while ensuring that the staircases met Building Regulations requireme

An exciting opportunity to utilise modern renewable materials.

RHA are pleased to be providing civil and structural design input to a new development project for Kaybee Developments in the Rutland area. Kaybee Developments create high-quality luxury properties, typically in rural locations. Their experienced team is dedicated to ensuring that their properties are not only beautiful and functional, but also incorporate the latest in energy-saving technology. They use innovative techniques such as ASHP, MVHR, and PV/Solar to ensure the pr

When you're managing a commercial project—whether it’s a new-build warehouse, a data centre upgrade, or refurbishing a complex historic...

When a property suffers unexpected damage—whether due to subsidence, storm events, fire, flooding, or accidental impact—the priority for...

We are delighted to again be working with Vistech Cooling Systems to provide our experienced structural design services to support them in providing new cooling towers at the islands power station.