ABSTRACT
Total Design is a philosophy developed by Arup's founding father Ove Arup to promote the benefits of integrated working. This is particularly important in tall buildings, where many skills are needed to develop the vast networks of structural, mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems that allow these vertical cities to function efficiently. Total Design brings into focus the synergies that already exist between many disciplines to encourage optimum results for all. To unlock its full potential, it needs to be implemented from the start of a project and continue to completion. Multiple like-minded firms can achieve this, but it is most effective when a single firm can offer the many technical skills needed to deliver a project. As Arup's services have diversified, undertaking many different roles on the same project has become feasible. Office expansions across the globe, coupled with advances in IT, are now allowing specialist resources from around the world to work seamlessly together.
