The Aude 2010 Conference

29 March 2010

Sympathy drinks, Refurbishment talk and Speed dating!

As one of only 5 architects from 50 stands, we’ve been in a great position to “stand out” – thanks to a great stand and our growing portfolio that people are increasingly interested in!

We were out last night in Belfast with Estate Directors from a number of Universities, making good contacts and links. Even bought a Guinness for the Higher Education Funding Council's Director of Estates - not a popular guy at the moment with funding cuts, but somebody had to buy him a drink!

Had a good day today talking to Directors of the main North West and North East Universities. The main theme seems to be refurb,refurb, refurb – inevitably fewer new build schemes coming forward, but this is a real opportunity for us given our experience and expertise in this area.

Talked with project management consultants about being on their OGC Framework for university projects – a definite follow up, plus met up with Whitelaw Turkington who we’re already working with on a Manchester scheme.

Out tonight at the Conference dinner, which has a "speed-dating" format for consultants to dine with Estate Directors, very exciting!!

Altogether, lots of positive discussions and potential links and contacts. Will need to do plenty of follow ups. I'll send an update tomorrow/Wed – Guinness permitting!

Best wishes,

Nigel.