Forget 007, meet 001, Em-B Solutions, licenced to schedule! We were the first-ever recipient of the Guild of Architectural Ironmongers’ / RIBA GuildMark accreditation. But what exactly is the GuildMark, and what advantages does using a GuildMark ironmonger offer architects and clients?
In the world of architecture and design, credibility and expertise are paramount. The Guildmark, a mark of quality granted by the Guild of Architectural Ironmongers (GAI) and The RIBA, is a benchmark of professionalism in this sector, and it’s an endorsement granted to companies with exceptional skills and knowledge in specifying door hardware. It’s not merely a badge of honour; it’s a testament to a company’s commitment to quality, expertise, and a deep understanding of architectural ironmongery.
At Em-B, we are the Guildmark OG, the pioneers, holding the original #001 Guildmark certificate. This is significant for several reasons, highlighting our pioneering role in setting industry standards and our commitment to excellence and innovation in architectural ironmongery. For architects, working with Em-B means partnering with a company that’s not only recognised for its expertise but also has a proven track record of leading the industry forward.
Every GuildMark company has to employ at least one RegAI (Registered Architectural Ironmonger), a person who has completed the GAI’s exhaustive training and education programme over three years and, more importantly, kept their knowledge and expertise bang up to date by undertaking a complete, accredited CPD programme. At Em-B, we are very well stocked with RegAIs a number currently on the payroll.
Our RegAIs work hard to produce award-winning door hardware schedules. A schedule is a detailed document that specifies all hardware items required for each door in a building project. It includes information on door handles, locks, closers, and all the other relevant fittings that make a door work beautifully throughout its lifetime. The accuracy of this schedule is crucial, as it affects not only the functionality and security of the doors but also compliance with building regulations and standards.
Employing a qualified architectural ironmonger to create this schedule is vital. These professionals – like our Em-B Reg AIs – bring a wealth of knowledge, ensuring that each piece of hardware is fit for purpose, compliant with regulations, and aligned with the design aesthetics of the scheme. Their expertise helps avoid costly mistakes and ensures that the hardware contributes positively to the building’s overall safety and functionality.
For architects and interior designers, working with a Guildmark holder means collaborating with a partner with proven expertise in the intricate world of door hardware. This collaboration ensures that door hardware’s aesthetic and functional aspects align seamlessly with the overall design vision. End users, on the other hand, benefit from the assurance that the products and advice they receive are of the highest industry standard. This translates into better hardware functionality, security, and longevity, ultimately leading to a more satisfying and enduring end product.
Our expertise in scheduling hardware is underpinned by our deep understanding of both the technical and aesthetic aspects of architectural ironmongery. Our team of qualified professionals ensures that each hardware schedule is meticulously planned and executed, aligning with each project’s specific needs and regulations. This is evidenced by our taking the top prize, the Winner of Winners, at the last GAI RIBA Specification Award.
So the Guildmark is more than just a symbol; it’s a reassurance of quality and expertise in architectural ironmongery. For architects and interior designers, choosing a Guildmark holder like Em-B Solutions means selecting a partner committed to excellence and informed by a rich heritage in the door hardware industry. This choice enhances their projects’ design and functionality and enriches the end users’ overall experience.
Contact our expert team today on 0113 245 9559 or email us at info@em-b.co.uk to see how we can support your next project the Guildmark way.