Bristol-based construction consultancy Hydrock has set up a Building Performance Engineering division with the sole objective of making buildings work better and perform to maximum efficiency. 
Led by senior building services professionals, the division will operate as part of multi-disciplinary teams alongside structural engineers and architects, focussing on influencing design thinking to drive light and thermal performance and to maximise natural resources at the earliest building concept stage, before any thought is given to adding mechanical and electrical services.
Hydrock’s approach is to work with the wider design team, embracing Building Information Modelling (BIM) as the preferred approach, to model buildings to deliver simple, effective and maintainable systems to supplement all the positive impacts that can be obtained from the natural performance of a building. With the building structure working at maximum efficiency, consideration will be given to building services systems and renewable technologies.
Henry Easterbrook, who has previously held senior building services roles at Skanska and Aecom, has been recruited as building performance engineering director to head up the division from Hydrock’s central Bristol office.
He said: “This is an exciting new approach to developing sustainable buildings for the future.
“This approach ensures the ultimate delivery of outstanding buildings that are most importantly buildable, maintainable, sustainable and workable in their everyday application.”
Hydrock director Dr Matt Hilton added: “This new approach to sustainable building design supports Hydrock’s ethos entirely and we are delighted to have Henry on board to drive this exciting venture forward.”
Hydrock, which provides multidisciplinary consultancy and design services for construction, infrastructure and the environment, has grown continuously since its creation in the mid-90s and now employs more than 200 people nationwide with a turnover of £30m.
