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The RESONATE approach by Ora Labora structural engineers September 28, 2026 The RESONATE Approach: How We Take Your Project From Brief to Build RESONATE is the eight-point approach behind every Ora Labora project, from understanding your requirements to exceptional service. Here is what each step… Rear elevation of a bungalow with a conservatory extension and roof-mounted solar panels, assessed by Ora Labora structural engineers September 24, 2026 Do You Need a Structural Engineer for a Conservatory? What the Exemption Does Not Cover Conservatories are often exempt from Building Regulations — but the opening you cut in the house is not. What actually needs designing,… Pre-1800s Buildings: Why Old Structures Need a Different Kind of Engineering September 19, 2026 Pre-1800s Buildings: Why Old Structures Need a Different Kind of Engineering Old buildings do not behave like modern ones. A structural engineer's guide to rubble stone, lime mortar and thatch — and why… Barn Conversions: What the Structure Will Tell You Before the Planners Do September 15, 2026 Barn Conversions: What the Structure Will Tell You Before the Planners Do Barn Conversions: What the Structure Will Tell You Before the Planners Do Most barn conversions begin with a drawing and a hope.… Ground floor chimney breast partially removed during a strip-out, with the brick stack above still in place September 9, 2026 Someone Already Removed the Chimney Breast. Is It Safe? There is a particular sinking feeling that comes with lifting a floorboard, or pulling back a bit of plasterboard in a house… Technical diagram showing a needle beam and adjustable props supporting masonry above a newly formed opening during temporary works September 6, 2026 Temporary Works Design: The Part of the Job Where Half the Building Is Missing Ask most people when a building is at its most vulnerable and they will picture a storm, or the day the roof… Trees subsidence structural engineer survey August 30, 2026 Trees and Subsidence: How Close Is Too Close to Your House? Is that tree causing your cracks? A structural engineer's guide to trees, shrinkable clay and subsidence — and why felling the tree… Loft conversion structural engineer roof inspection August 23, 2026 Loft Conversions: Can Your Roof Actually Take It? Most lofts can be converted, but how straightforward it is depends on your roof type, head height and floor structure. A structural… Trial pit ground investigation structural engineer August 18, 2026 What Is a Trial Pit? How Engineers Find Out What Your House Is Really Sitting On What is a trial pit, and why would a structural engineer dig one beside your house? A plain-English guide to ground investigation,… Structural Engineers in Peterborough: What Homeowners and Developers Should Know August 10, 2026 Structural Survey or Structural Appraisal? What You Actually Need, and What It Costs If you have been told you need a structural survey, there is a good chance you have already been given three different…
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Andrew Vear 6 months ago

Stella did a great job for us. She liaised with building control (quite a challenge) and thought of things we would have never considered. Overall she did a great job for us and we are extremely happy with the outcome.

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Luke Sowinski a year ago

We used Ora Labora to get structural drawings for the removal of 5 load bearing walls. I had contacted many other structural engineer firms but they were hesitant to take on the project. When I rang Ora Labora there were no issues and they were able to come out quickly to survey the property. Everyone was very professional and I was able to get the final drawings very quickly at a good price. I handed these over to my builder and they were able to complete the work without any issues. I would highly recommend and would use them again!

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Graham Stewart 3 years ago

We were referred to Ora Labora and it was a great referral. Stella came around and checked the property and had given us enough notice of where we needed to excavate for her to get a better understanding of the existing building. Drawings were submitted for our approval before final drawings completed. All done in great time, to me. Thank you Ivy for all your effort and communication as well. Well deserved 5 plus stars.

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Jay Shah 4 years ago

Highly recommended structural engineer. I was introduced by a friend to a very good and efficient structural engineer, Stella Macharia. She analysed the project and supported me during the process of new build on the 3rd floor. Stella attended at the site time stated and identified the issue straight away, and was very knowledgeable. I would highly recommend Ora Labora and her team and wish to continue to work with them for any future projects.

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derek elding 6 months ago

Excellent service from all at Ora Labora, they work with you to achieve the best result for your requirements.

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Harry Gresham 7 months ago

Smooth process and trusted team to work with for our internal renovations. Would use again.

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yasamine watts 6 months ago

Helped us very quickly in an urgent situation, excellent work. Would definitely recommend.

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James Ekberg 8 months ago

Really impressive service - prompt, professional, and helpful.

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S.A.M 5 months ago

Smooth experience working with Ora Labora Ltd. Will definitely use again.

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