Dominic Skinner joined the team at modular building specialist The Qube last year as Head of Design and Pre-Construction, bringing a wealth of design and delivery experience, including leading his own architecture practice.
Here he discusses his career and experience and what he sees himself bringing to the future growth and development of The Qube.
So, Dominic, introduce yourself…
I’ve been involved in sustainable architecture and design for almost 20 years. Leading my own award-winning architecture practice was an exciting journey, where I had the privilege of working on a variety of projects – from luxury residences to innovative educational spaces and bustling commercial developments. A highlight was working on the BBC show DIY SOS with interior designer Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen.
I bring extensive design and delivery experience to the team at The Qube, having worked previously as Design and Technical Director for a national modular homes manufacturer, for several AJ100 architect’s practices on large-scale award-winning projects, and in senior design management for a Tier 1 contractor on multi- million-pound developments.
I’m passionate about creating spaces that are not only attractive, but also contribute positively to the environment and society. I believe that good design shouldn’t be reserved for Grand Designs- style projects but should be accessible for all.
When not involved in Qube projects you can find me sharing my knowledge and experiences as a guest lecturer at universities, where I enjoy mentoring the architectural professionals of the future.
Outside of work I’m a proud Royal Air Force reservist, having worked with the world-famous Red Arrows. I’m a massive rugby fan and love coaching my son’s under-9s team on a Sunday morning.
It’s a great time to join #TeamQube and I’m very excited to be involved. With a growing team, we’re looking to raise the standards of delivery and innovation in the construction industry in Northamptonshire and beyond. We’re a company that prides itself on its family-run ethics, but we’re also agile in our approach and forward thinking in our outlook. It’s that mixture that attracted me to coming on board.
What is MMC?
Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) represent a contemporary approach to the planning, fabrication and assembly of buildings, prioritising innovative and efficient techniques to enhance construction processes. MMC seeks to deviate from traditional on- site construction methods and embraces off-site or prefabricated components manufactured in controlled environments.
MMC aims to address challenges in the construction industry, including cost overruns, delays, and environmental impact, by promoting more sustainable, standardised and technologically driven building practices.
How does MMC help sustainability?
MMC significantly aids sustainability in construction practices. By utilising prefabricated components and modular construction techniques, MMC minimises material waste during building processes. This efficiency extends to reduced construction times, resulting in lower energy consumption and carbon emissions. Additionally, MMC encourages the use of sustainable materials and innovative technologies to enhance energy efficiency and reduce environmental impact. Overall, MMC plays a crucial role in advancing sustainability within the construction industry, promoting resource efficiency and eco-friendly building practices.
Tell us more about the benefits of SIPS.
Utilising structural insulated panels (SIPs) offers several advantages in the construction of buildings. These panels, consisting of a foam core sandwiched between two layers of oriented strand board (OSB), provide excellent thermal insulation, promoting energy efficiency and reducing heating costs. SIPs are known for their structural integrity, offering strength and stability to the building framework. Additionally, their prefabricated nature allows for swift and efficient on-site assembly, saving both time and labour costs.
The airtight construction of SIPs contributes to enhanced indoor air quality and comfort. Overall, the use of structural insulated panels in construction aligns with sustainable building practices, delivering a combination of energy efficiency, structural resilience, and streamlined construction processes.
You’ve recently completed another net-zero-in-operation building, what does this actually mean?
A net-zero-in-operation building is designed to produce all the energy it needs for its operation. Elements such as heating, cooling and lighting are created through renewable energy sources like solar panels and air source heat pumps, with superior insulation and air tightness helping to maintain a healthy and comfortable internal environment. This means that over the course of a year, the total amount of energy the building generates equals or can be more than the total amount of energy it consumes. By achieving this balance, net zero buildings significantly reduce their carbon footprint and reliance on costly traditional energy sources, leading the way towards a greener and more sustainable future.
Our involvement in net zero building projects allows us to realise our vision of sustainable development in action. It’s about more than just constructing buildings – it’s about creating spaces that enhance lives while minimising our environmental footprint. Through our commitment to sustainability, innovation, and making a difference, we’re proud to be shaping a brighter, greener future one project at a time.
With a lot of schools and leisure facilities desperately needing extra space, what is it that The Qube can offer that’s different from the rest?
At The Qube, agility is at the heart of everything we do. We understand that every client’s needs are unique, especially when it comes to creating additional space for schools and leisure facilities. That’s why we pride ourselves on offering bespoke solutions tailored to each client’s specific requirements. Our team of experts has extensive experience in supporting our client base, providing positive solutions to their space challenges.
To find out more about The Qube call 01604 785786, email hello@theqube.co.uk or visit www.theqube.co.uk
