The ‘fast forward’ button for the door hardware industry has been firmly pressed by the new president of the Guild of Architectural Ironmongers (GAI), Maria Powell.
In her inspirational inaugural speech at the Guild’s AGM, Maria Powell, managing director of Lorient Group, called upon the industry to maintain momentum and a strong focus on the future, particularly on the young people who could be encouraged to enter the industry.
She also painted a picture of architectural ironmongery as an industry likely to be reshaped beyond recognition by rapidly accelerating developments in technology:
“Will we, in 10 years’ time, all as a matter of course, have staff who will take our prospective clients on a full sensory virtual tour of a proposed project, switching finishes and styles of ironmongery at the swipe of a screen or more likely a simple hand gesture?
“Will an architectural ironmonger and an architect be able to experience a finished project, before it has even started, simply by donning wearable technology?
“Will sets of architectural drawings transform at the click of a button into 3D printed models of the project? Will BIM ultimately become the tool that produces a schedule?
“Will there even be a need for master key systems when all the data required to access zones or compartments in buildings is individually programmed into each and every unique human being?”, she asked.
Maria highlighted the current impact of 3D technology in transforming the way designers design, architects create and manufacturers produce:
“It is now simply the fastest way to bring a design from idea to reality,” she said. “It’s a technology taking hold at every level of architecture, construction and engineering, and across educational programmes.
“It’s a liberating technology providing new opportunities to rethink the materials you build with and the design possibilities they permit. It’s abundantly clear that there is no going back to a 2D world.”
She also pointed to changes within the structure of the UK and international architectural ironmongery industry, including a shift in the types of business that consider themselves to be architectural ironmongers.
“There are still the purists – traditional AIs, offering highly professional services to the construction sector – but you’re more likely to find them today doing business in new ways, smarter ways and utilising technology more,” she explained.
“There is also the emergence of hybrid companies, meeting demand for centrally-packaged delivery of doors, hardware and installation. There are manufacturers employing qualified AIs, and AIs who source or produce their own ranges of product. The boundaries are becoming increasingly blurred.
“This diversity gives us a bright future while acknowledging our rich heritage. The speed of change can sometimes be frightening, but embracing it, rather than resisting it is the only way to survive and thrive.”
The GAI’s new president used her speech to update members on changes happening within the Guild, including a total transformation of its world-renowned education portfolio which will result in the new online GAI Education Hub to be launched in the autumn.
“More than ever before, I believe the Guild has a future focus and is moving more swiftly, yet not losing sight of the values and ethos that formed its foundation 54 years ago,” said Maria.
“We can’t future-proof our businesses, but we can future-adapt them. My aim is to ensure that Guild members in the UK and overseas, as well as all those involved in our industry, are clear about what we stand for. To demonstrate beyond doubt the huge difference working with true professionals makes to their businesses.”
Maria Powell has two years as president of the GAI. At the AGM, GAI members also appointed David Stacey, new equipment director at DORMA UK and Ireland, as vice president. Julian Newman, director at Oxford Ironmongery, was appointed treasurer.
Who’s Who on the GAI Executive Committee 2015/16
Maria Powell, Lorient Group (GAI President)
David Stacey, DORMA UK Ltd (GAI Vice President)
Julian Newman, Oxford Ironmongery Ltd (GAI Treasurer)
Wayne Harris, Harbrine Ltd
Nish Mohamed, Em-B Solutions Ltd
Andy Matthews, HOPPE UK Ltd
Steve Bewick, KABA Ltd
Paul Johnson, ASSA ABLOY
Graham Shirville, Allgood plc
Kaz Spiewakowski, GEZE UK Ltd
John Jefferies, Laidlaw Interiors Group
Paul Duggan, Exova Warringtonfire (Chairman of GAI Technical Committee)
Andy Fitzgerald, Leaderflush Shapland Laidlaw (Chairman of GAI Education Committee)
Mario Del-Signore, CES (Chairman of IAI)
Gary Amer, GAI Chief Executive
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