Why Architects Choose Birkdale: The Power of Early Collaboration Between Designer and Manufacturer
Why Architects Choose Us… Series
Why Early Collaboration Matters
Every successful project begins with the right partnerships. For architects, engaging manufacturers from the start ensures project designs that are practical, sustainable, and future proof. When architects involve manufacturers from the outset, projects benefit from hands-on expertise and avoid costly surprises later.
At Birkdale, we understand the value of this partnership. Our business was founded by a fencer more than 40 years ago, giving us a deep insight into the challenges that occur on site. By getting involved early in the design process, we help architects anticipate potential challenges and find innovative solutions before construction begins. When fencing decisions are left too late, projects can suffer from mismatched aesthetics, unplanned costs, and coordination issues that disrupt the architect’s vision. Early engagement allows every detail to align perfectly, keeping both budgets and scope on track.
The Rise of the “Specification Mindset”
In recent years, the dynamic between architects and manufacturers has evolved significantly. Specification writing, which traditionally occurred around RIBA Stage 4, is now starting much earlier, often at Stage 2 or 3. This shift reflects an emerging “specification mindset,” where detailed planning is prioritised from the outset.
Several factors have driven this change. Sustainability objectives demand greater transparency, prompting architects to request Environmental Product Declarations and carbon data directly from manufacturers. Advances in digital tools and AI have streamlined communication, enabling faster and more efficient collaboration between design and supply teams. Additionally, compliance requirements and expectations for long-term performance have encouraged architects to seek specialist input sooner, ensuring designs are both practical and future ready. Collectively, these developments are reshaping the architect–manufacturer relationship and delivering stronger, more resilient project outcomes.
Common Pain Points in the Design-to-Installation Journey
Every architect knows the frustration of a design that doesn’t translate perfectly to site conditions. Sometimes, what looks ideal in concept becomes complicated during installation. This disconnect can result in hurried redesigns, rising costs, and missed deadlines.
Architects are already balancing creativity with strict budgets and timelines, so unexpected site challenges can quickly disrupt a project’s flow. Late specification changes exasperate the issue, forcing teams to adapt materials and designs when construction is already underway.
These pain points are avoidable, but only when manufacturers are involved early enough to offer insight, advice, and practical solutions based on real-world experience.
The Benefits of Early Engagement
When manufacturers are engaged from the beginning, projects run more smoothly and achieve better outcomes. Early collaboration aligns stakeholders, architects, contractors, and suppliers, around a shared understanding of goals and constraints. This approach reduces the likelihood of surprises and helps resolve potential issues long before they become costly on-site challenges.
Working with Birkdale right from the beginning also supports sustainability and compliance objectives. We provide detailed product information, including environmental data, to help architects select the most relevant and sustainable materials for their projects.
Our guidance ensures that every specification meets current standards whilst also anticipating future requirements. By sharing our knowledge of materials, maintenance, and installation, we help architects create fencing designs that are durable, efficient, and built to last.
Working together from the very beginning creates projects that balance visual appeal, technical excellence, and eco-conscious design.
Birkdale Supports Architects from Concept to Completion
Birkdale takes pride in bridging the gap between design and delivery. Many of our team members began their careers as fencers, this helps us to understand the realities that occur on site and the importance of designing with installation in mind. Our extensive experience across commercial projects means we can provide valuable guidance at every stage of a build, from concept through to final completion.
We work closely with architects to recommend fencing systems that meet both aesthetic and functional goals. Our DuraPost® range offers versatility and strength, our products can also be delivered to the project site within three to five days.
This flexibility allows architects to adapt quickly if specifications evolve during the project. We also provide bespoke quotations and technical advice to help ensure designs remain within budget and on schedule.
By collaborating early, architects can rely on Birkdale’s product expertise and hands-on knowledge to create designs that work perfectly in practice as well as on paper.
Start Collaborating with Birkdale Today
At Birkdale, we believe that great design is built on strong partnerships. By working with architects from the earliest stages, we help ensure that fencing enhances a project.
Our goal is to make the journey from concept to completion as seamless as possible, providing the expertise and support you need every step of the way.
We’re inviting architects to join our Commercial network, a collaborative space where we work directly with design professionals and their contractors to deliver fencing solutions that complement every project.
Start collaborating with Birkdale today and discover how proactive specification can elevate your next design. Download our Commercial Brochure to learn more about how we can support your projects from concept to completion.
Get in Touch
Great architecture deserves great partnerships. Reach out today and discover what we can achieve together.
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