Thomas Brian Minns launched his own architecture and environmental consultancy practice – Framework NDS – in October 2016. Based in the United Arab Emirates since 2007, Brian held the role of Director of Architecture for a UK based multidisciplinary consultancy.  The practice was eventually acquired by another firm, inspiring him to form his own company. Throughout his career Brian has always considered architecture and the environment as natural companions in any design process.  The success of combining these two in the day to day practice is one of his greatest achievements.

Holding a Master's Degree in Environmental Management from the University of Bath, Brian combines a career profile of architecture, urban development and environmental impact management; all based on a unique blend of professional industry experience, and an academic approach to research and collation of project data. In consideration of potential change within the consultancy profession, he recognizes the impact data modeling will have on project development design and impact management in the years to come.

Project work in both New Zealand and the United Arab Emirates, has provided Brian significant experience on large multi- platform projects, primarily focused on works related to RFP preparation/response, technical bid writing, design presentation, feasibility study, pre-concept and concept design development. The UAE role particularly focused on the lead of all design output for two practice offices, and a large number of construction sites both within the Emirates, and internationally.

His project design focus is the combination of development and the environment, and is based on the belief that design solutions must consider all those socio-economic, environment and climate change dynamics applicable to the place.

During the last decade, Brian has developed considerable experience in modeling technology; from BIM building information modeling, BIM in multiple platform projects, carbon footprint for development impact, and lifecycle modeling for facility management.

Within the Shankland Cox management structure, the role of director and board member required input to strategic planning, enabling the firm to grow, when and where the market provided opportunities. The practice investigated and undertook projects in the United Arab Emirates, North Africa, Georgia, Oman and Pakistan; all endeavors viewed in the context of developing a business model reflecting multiple pillars of support within the region.

In completion of a recent Master's dissertation, the subject matter was driven by a desire to understand how technology could change the management of urban development. As a result of this, one aspect of Brian's career will be to continue the study of this subject through Framework NDS. Brian believes the development market place’s demand for sustainable solutions will blur the lines between consultancy disciplines. The future being open to effective consultancy based on a holistic approach, encompassing business and development operations, facility management, and environmental impact management, in one vision.

Brian is a Registered Architect under the New Zealand Registered Architects Board, a Chartered Architect with the Royal Institute of British Architects, and a Practitioner with the Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment.

Worldwide Association of Notable Alumni Member, Thomas Brian Minns, MEM, can be found on the Association Directory where he is looking forward to networking with you.