Acoustics are essential to successful building design, and to how people experience buildings. The sound environment affects human health, communication, and productivity. Noise and vibrations assignments of various sizes Acoustic ambiance is more important in densely populated offices and mixed-use complexes – and acoustic regulations are becoming more stringent.
Octopodes works with acoustics, noise, and vibrations. We use sound measuring equipment and computer programs in order to present accurate calculations and reports about acoustics we complete tasks of all sizes, from limited measurements to complete acoustic planning of large building projects, specialized structures, and major road projects. Areas of expertise and relevant projects Building acoustics, Acoustics in rooms and halls, outside noise assessments and noise reduction, Industrial noise assessments, Sound measurements
We use the following process in our acoustics projects:
Architects play a central role in the development of the built environment and are concerned with the creation of buildings that incorporate practical issues, aesthetic values, and environmental responsibilities. Octopode’s architectural approach
Octopode’s architects work in a creative, multidisciplinary environment that has a strong client focus. We have extensive experience in the total building process from initial ideas, analyses, and programming, through design development and construction, right up to the handover and operation of the finished product.
By combining architectural vision with the expertise from our other services we provide truly holistic designs – helping our clients to determine and deliver their ambitions in a sustainable way – benefiting communities and the environment. Octopode’s architectural expertise: We offer a full range of architectural services including Idea and project development, Site analysis, Studies, analyses and conditions reports, Illustrations and 3D visualizations, Programming and functional analyses, Rehabilitation and reuse of existing buildings, Interior design and architecture, Landscape design and architecture, Master planning and urban development.
Modern buildings are complex constellations of thousands of components made from hundreds of different types of materials. New components and materials are developed constantly with the aim of improving quality and decreasing costs.
State-of-the-art solutions
Too often, new components and materials prove to be unfit for their purpose. This frequently leads to significant damages and costs. Such problems can be traced to a lack of knowledge of moisture control, temperature fluctuations, atmospheric loads, the long-term durability of materials or how materials influence each other. Octopodes has extensive experience in the field of building physics and material technology. We use state-of-the-art software when analyzing the temperature effects, moisture pressure, airflow and other physical aspects of building elements. We have modern in-house laboratories for analyzing specimens of damaged materials.
Concrete Octopodes has world-leading knowledge in the field of cement and concrete technology. Our team of experts offers customers around the world tailored service in materials supply, production, use of concrete, repairs, and litigation.
Octopodes expertise includes specialized knowledge in:
Natural building stone Octopodes is also a global leader in the field of selection and evaluation of stone, and how best to use it for buildings, especially stone-clad facades. Our expertise includes: Durability of different types of stone (for example granite or marble), Design of fixing systems, Evaluation of atmospheric actions, Specification of complete façade systems, Supervision of construction works Metals
Our team of building physicists analyses and evaluates:
Octopode’s building services engineering produces environmental strategies and system designs. Our building services engineers work with their building physics colleagues to produce efficient, comfortable buildings in which structure and systems work cooperatively.
Client consultancy
Building is not an easy task. It requires a lot of experience to build a building on spec, on time and on budget – and ensure that all stakeholders are happy with the process.
At Octopodes, we have the know-how to ensure a successful process and result – from the very first idea is developed into a business case and a design brief until the building is handed over to the customer. We even assist in developing procedures for operation and maintenance.
Client consultancy services
We offer client consultancy services (or project management, as some would call it) to customers who do not have their own project management teams. In this role, we act on behalf of the customer to employ architects, engineers, and contractors to design and build their building.
Our job is to act in the best interest of the customer, focusing on obtaining the customer’s objectives and ensuring qualified cooperation between the parties involved. We monitor the services of others and take corrective actions when required. Measuring our results It is always important for us to deliver high-quality building-related services. We measure our results according to function, aesthetics, sustainability, indoor climate, energy consumption, operation, and maintenance, as well as economy.
Octopodes client consultancy disciplines.
Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) is our name for the combination of Building Information Modelling (BIM) and other advanced computer-aided design techniques – including 3D modeling, parametric design, and analysis. By using VDC Octopodes adds value at all stages of a building’s lifecycle.
Our approach and experience
Creating buildings that meet the needs of society today and in the future is not an easy task. Octopodes has led the way in the use of a range of advanced computer-aided design techniques that can help produce these buildings. We have a unique approach to using Building information modeling (BIM) and CAD, and combining these with analysis techniques – we call this Virtual Design and Construction (VDC).
This approach has benefits for the entire building project team, future users, and society as a whole:
We successfully utilize our Virtual Design and Construction techniques every day. We see these as a design toolbox. The key is using the most appropriate tool in the most efficient way – ensuring that the right information gets to the right people at the right time. Combining computer software and project organization procedures to realize the benefits of Building Information Modelling can be challenging. We have developed a methodology to overcome the various barriers. Using this methodology we can assist any of our partners to successfully adopt BIM on a project.
Research and development Advances in computer-aided design occur all the time. We are actively researching and working in collaboration with a number of partners to develop a variety of new
Design tools and processes:
We welcome suggestions for other collaborations.
We are increasingly dependent on well-functioning electrical, IT and telecom systems. Malfunctions can have serious consequences for both safety and economy. Such systems must be designed to avoid disruptions and minimise risk. Planning and design of electrical systems
Octopodes offers services in planning and design of electrical, IT, telecom and lift systems in hospitals and healthcare facilities, offices, laboratories, schools, hotels, industrial facilities, and homes. Our engineers assess needs and propose technical solutions to optimise operating reliability and economy. Close collaboration with our customers ensures high quality and maximum value. We have special expertise in areas such as power supply, lighting, telecom and process systems.
Our areas of expertise
Services in this technical discipline cover all stages of the building process:
In addition to general electrical and telecom systems, we have expertise in:
We successfully utilize our Virtual Design and Construction techniques every day. We see these as a design toolbox. The key is using the most appropriate tool in the most efficient way – ensuring that the right information gets to the right people at the right time.
Combining computer software and project organization procedures to realize the benefits of Building Information Modelling can be challenging. We have developed a methodology to overcome the various barriers. Using this methodology we can assist any of our partners to successfully adopt BIM on a project.
Research and development
Advances in computer-aided design occur all the time. We are actively researching and working in collaboration with a number of partners to develop a variety of new
A building’s façade should filter sound, light, heat and cold in such a way that the indoor climate is appropriate for the activities taking place inside the building. At Octopodes, we use simulation programs early in the design phase to help test how different types of façades will work with the interior of the building. Our façade design considers manufacturing, construction, and use. Our services Our façade engineering consultancy covers the following areas:
These can be specified as separate services, or as part of projects in the fields of structures, installations, fire or acoustics.
Buildings and infrastructure represent a significant cost for businesses and society. Efficient operation and use of facilities are of great importance for finances and the working environment. In addition, the working environment has a great impact on core business efficiency.
Integration of processes
Facility management is the integration of processes within an organization to maintain and develop the agreed services which support and improve the efficiency of its primary activities. Our Facility Management consultancy deals with all these aspects of Facility Management.
Our starting point is our customer’s defined aims and objectives for their core business. Our specialists have a broad knowledge base with a comprehensive understanding of the different aspects of the management discipline, architecture, buildings, and services. They also have the ability to translate core business demands for space and services into specific products and deliverables accessible on the suppliers market.
Our services have a great span: from the strategic brief for understanding the demands of the core business, through specifying the needed services and carrying out the procurement process. Our Facility Management department also has the responsibility for advising actors on the suppliers market (internal and external suppliers) in improving their working processes.
Strategic consultancy services
Technical and tactical consultancy
Society’s acceptance of risks to people, business, property, and the environment is continuously reducing. This makes minimising fire and safety risks on building projects increasingly important. Our fire engineering and safety risk management experts develop situation-specific strategies helping our customers to manage risks within budgetary constraints and limiting the impact on the environment.
Fire engineering
Fire engineering combines a scientific knowledge of how fires start, spread, are contained and extinguished with knowledge of human behavior to produce a fire strategy for a building.
Within this field our services include:
We use a design approach to fire engineering rather than starting with generic codes of practice. This design approach entails developing a situation-specific strategy, using statistics of real fires, analysis tools and studies of human behavior. Our experience shows this can realize the architectural vision and add value by reducing over-specification caused by conservative codes of practice.
Safety risk management
Probabilistic load modeling: We can determine appropriate factors of safety to be used in the design of a building – resulting in safer and more efficient designs than using generic codes of practice.
Project risk: Using advanced risk analysis techniques we can assist in the management of project risks (time, cost and quality) and how these are influenced by and affect safety. This process can add value at all stages of a building’s lifecycle, from conception to decommissioning. Industrial risk analysis and mapping: The assessment of safety risks to employees and the general public posed by many industrial processes is a legal requirement. We can analyze and map these risks and assist in the design of mitigation measures.
Safety documentation: We can carry out the necessary analysis and prepare a variety of safety documentation for a range of industries, including ATEX.
Octopodes offers a broad range of services in geotechnics, geophysics and rock engineering. Geotechnics: Octopodes carries out projects of all sizes and manages every phase – from planning, initial investigation, design, and tender, to implementation, inspection and supervision.
Our services cover every aspect of geotechnics and foundation engineering:
Geotechnical projects Our projects cover everything from single-family houses to bridges and offshore platforms. No matter what task our geotechnical experts undertake, they deliver world-class results based on many years of experience and innovation. We also carry out research and development projects that focus on environmentally sustainable solutions. These include:
Geophysics Geophysics deals with the physical properties of the earth and the atmosphere. Octopode’s geophysics services apply science to constructions such as building, groundwater protection, sustainability and marine construction. Using our large selection of instruments, we can carry out almost any kind of geophysical investigation. In particular, we focus on:
Geophysical investigations are based on the analysis and interpretation of collected field measurements – so the quality of these measurements is crucial. Our technicians specialize in calibrating, maintaining and developing measuring equipment. Using our own equipment ensures that employees always have detailed knowledge of the tools they are operating. It also helps us ensure that the equipment is always in excellent working condition. We can also optimise measuring routines in a continuous process. Rock engineering Engineering geologists interpret observed and mapped geological data. They create conceptual models that illustrate the engineering-geological classification of each rock unit. Civil engineers then use these data and interpretations to make crucial building decisions. Our engineering geologists have years of experience with this process. They understand the geological and non-geological factors that can influence rock slope stability. So even though the factors may vary considerably in a given area, our customers are sure to get accurate results. Our rock engineering services include:
The challenges of creating attractive outdoor environments have become more pronounced with increased urbanization. Octopodes landscape designers create environments that contribute to people’s well-being, increase our appreciation of nature, and preserve cultural heritage. We do this by planning and designing outdoor and public spaces that both enhance the surrounding environment and ensure public enjoyment.
Our landscape designers have experience in all stages of the design process, from pre-surveys to complete implementation plans. We get involved in civil engineering and infrastructure projects at an early stage to ensure a smooth process from start to finish. We provide analyses and assist with site surveys, configuration, and environmental impact assessments. We have extensive experience with transport infrastructure projects, including roads, railways, and ports. By getting involved as early in the process as possible, we can help ensure that the infrastructure is integrated with the surrounding environment.
Social, aesthetic and ecological aspects
Sustainable development is an increasingly important focus of urban renewal. Octopode’s team of landscape architects, landscape designers, and urban planners work in an interdisciplinary way to achieve functional and beautiful designs that are sustainable on a social, ecological and economic level.
Landscape architecture is about designing outdoor and public spaces for a specific purpose, whether it’s social, aesthetic, or ecological. We are dedicated to creating environments that encourage people to make sustainable lifestyle choices. Sustainable cities and areas are planned with minute considerations of their environmental impact.
The need for smart sustainable urban solutions has never been greater than it is today. Octopode’s master planning services focus on developing healthy, safe places in which people can thrive, communities can evolve, and the environment can flourish. Realizing complex urban solutions Coordination and understanding of a wide range of disciplines is critical to successful master planning, which is why our ability to integrate our areas of expertise is crucial to our success. We help customers realize their development potential, particularly when it comes to complex urban concepts. We identify key risks and suggest solutions. We provide the spectrum of knowledge required for the development of all kinds of urban, suburban, former industrial, and greenfield areas. The realities of commercial feasibility remain central to our consultancy.
Close coordination from concept to completion
We have a thorough understanding of all project stages involved from concept to completion — from architectural and infrastructure design, environmental and geotechnical assessment, legislative requirements, sustainable energy, transport planning and socioeconomic implications, to planning strategy, phasing, and delivery.
Depending on the requirements of the project, we bring together the relevant specialists to work with an experienced master planning project manager. The project manager takes responsibility for internal communications and functions as the primary point of contact for the team. Our approach has proved successful when coordinating very specific types of expertise to provide a cohesive and comprehensive service.
Our usage of advanced modeling software and geographic information systems (GIS) supports the analysis of options available and the subsequent communication of results.
Heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC, or climate control) and climate technology are important to people’s well-being and health. Ensuring quality HVAC systems
Sick leave and low productivity are caused by inferior quality HVAC and climate systems. Energy is wasted by inadequate ventilation and heating systems. But Octopodes has the skills and solutions to improve these conditions. In addition to the traditional mechanical services disciplines, we are skilled in special areas such as indoor climate, environmental design, integrated building design, building physics, simulations, BMS/building automation and mechanical refrigeration.
Our projects include:
We participate actively in all phases of a project – including preliminary studies, determination of user requirements and design conditions, and handover of the completed building. The extensive network of expertise To give our customers the best possible return on their investments, we share knowledge across the Octopodes organization. This means that we always have direct access to an extensive network of expertise which guarantees quality and totality in our consultancy services.
Octopodes services cover:
Successful construction projects depend on the swift resolution of numerous challenges. Often, such projects require contact with the owners and occupants of the properties concerned, as well as with public authorities, planners, and contractors.
Each project is a unique endeavor In view of this, the promoters of many construction projects entrust the management of their projects to a highly-skilled and experienced organization such as Octopodes. We see each project as a unique endeavor. We aim to tailor-make services or products that will benefit each individual customer. We organize human resources to ensure our projects are completed on time, within budget and to high-quality standards. To achieve this, project leaders work in partnership with builders to organize, carry out and complete construction projects.
Project and construction management
We supply project and construction management services for all types of building, industrial and civil engineering projects. From civil engineering, industry, and infrastructure to real estate, construction law and environmental management,
we provide the following services:
New buildings add only one percent to the building stock each year. The remaining 99 percent of buildings require regular renovation and refurbishment to meet the ever-changing demands of society. Our wide-ranging expertise allows us to assess and meet our customer’s needs – ensuring existing buildings provide economically, socially and environmentally sustainable prospects. Capitalising on potential: We believe that simply maintaining the built environment and limiting deterioration is not enough. Our aim is to ensure buildings remain as living, working structures – ready to meet all the needs of current and future users – whilst minimising their impact on the environment. To achieve this goal we need to capitalize on the full potential of all existing buildings before they deteriorate and become unusable – utilizing all aspects of the building.
The overall approach that is taken to renovate and refurbish any building has a significant impact on the finished product and its success at realizing the aspirations of all stakeholders. We use a systematic and holistic approach to ensure the full potential of an existing building is reached.
Historic buildings
Historically significant buildings require a special approach – understanding or ‘listening’ to the building is the key. We have worked on internationally important historic buildings and sites – cooperating closely with historic building protection authorities – providing solutions that are sympathetic to the historic building fabric and minimising irreversible interventions. Renovation and refurbishment experience
Experience is often the key to successfully renovating or refurbishing an existing building. We have provided solutions to many complex and multifaceted problems in existing buildings – delivering our customer’s aspirations.
Natural and artificial light shapes our experience of space and architecture. Lighting design can enhance the aesthetics of a building or outdoor space and it opens the possibility for new experiences. The light setting can invite play or inspire peace, security or balance.
At Octopodes, we combine the latest international knowledge of lighting design and technology with solid engineering practice. Our team of highly qualified specialists covers all aspects of any lighting project. Our portfolio within lighting is very broad and includes everything from city master plans to lighting museums and commercial buildings. We undertake small and large projects for customers within the public and private sector. Our consultancy is impartial and always considers a wide range of opportunities.
Structural engineering means more than transferring loads from a building’s structure to its foundations.A holistic approach Our structural engineers’ holistic approach aims at developing optimal structures that also meet architectural, economic, environmental, fabrication, transportation, and construction requirements. This requires skill, experience and a detailed understanding of local contexts.
Structural engineering is also about exploring the limitations of materials and getting inspired by nature. At Octopodes, we are proud of our ongoing work developing new types of innovative structures and setting new standards in the business – both in terms of structural concepts and geometric complexity. We use the most advanced engineering software and develop our own when our needs go beyond the limits of commercially available software.
Our areas of expertise We design conventional structures as well as advanced structures such as:
We use 3D modeling (Building Information Modelling) with our customers, architects, and contractors because, in our experience, building projects work best when all parties in the process share a vision. In addition to streamlining the design process, 3D modeling makes it possible to use complex shapes and models as never before, often resulting in more organic-looking buildings.
Sustainability has many definitions. At Octopodes, we use the UN’s holistic definition of sustainable development. We do not see buildings as isolated sustainable systems – we see them as part of neighborhoods and cities’ A good business.
Sustainable construction was once an additional investment reserved for the most idealistic of developers. Today’s soaring energy prices make sustainable construction good business for everyone. The additional investment in low energy housing is repaid by savings in energy use over the lifetime of the houses. Sustainable design shows responsible behavior and is becoming “the license to operate”.
Sustainability features
At Octopodes, we see it as our mission to promote sustainable design (economically, environmentally and socially sustainable). For each project, we aim to incorporate the sustainable design features most appropriate to each specific site. Such features include:
