The design approach of Nicholas Holt, who firmly believes in the advantages of practical cooperation models, is to combine structural building systems, principles of harmonious design and in–depth comprehensive knowledge in the field of construction at all stages - from the development of the project concept to the preparation of construction documentation and implementation.
As the head of the Technical Architecture team at SOM's New York office, Holt oversees the detailed development and documentation of all projects in the New York office. Since starting his work at SOM in 1995, he has accumulated extensive experience working with high-rise and ultra-tall commercial and mixed-use buildings, financial and investment facilities, healthcare facilities, residential and hotel towers. Based on the experience of implementing numerous projects abroad, he has developed a keen understanding of the need to work in collaboration with local customers, manufacturers of metal structures and interested parties to maximize the use of regional conditions in order to comply with international standards of quality and efficiency.
Holt is an industry leader in the practical application of building information modeling (BIM) and the related implementation of new project delivery models aimed at delivering projects with greater efficiency and effectiveness. Recent examples of this are: building No. 250 on 55th Street in West New York and the Science and Medical Center at Mount Sinai Medical Complex, which became one of the first major projects in New York City designed and documented 100% in a BIM environment.
As a proponent of refining design solutions based on accumulated experience, Holt leads a team of digital design specialists working on the development of promising computer models that analyze the impact of design decisions on key points in the design process. The use of advanced digital tools, both within the SOM framework and in collaboration with industry partners, allows the group to optimize sustainable development, efficiency and building adaptability.
In addition, Holt directs the Center for Architecture, Science, and Ecology (CASE), a product of the research collaboration between SO and Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. Aimed at developing new environmentally friendly materials and technologies, CAC combines the practicality of the private sector, fundamental research and scientific precision in finding the latest technologies and refining them for practical use in buildings.
In 2013, Holt was a member of the coordinating committee and co-chairman of the working group of the Special Commission on Building Sustainability under Mayor Bloomberg, a team of specialists created after Hurricane Sandy, tasked with making proposals to improve the stability of buildings and ensure maximum preparedness for future extreme weather events in New York.