IBI buys smart building supplier

The global architecture and design practice has acquired Aspyr Engineering, a four-year-old information technology provider that it has worked with on major projects in Canada.

Aspyr builds audio visual, security and IT systems for hospitals, prisons and universities. Clients include St Paul’s Hospital and Emily Carr University in Vancouver and computer giant IBM.

All 13 Aspyr staff will transfer to IBI. The price was not disclosed. Both firms are headquartered in Canada, although IBI is global, with 62 offices employing 2,600 staff. Aspyr will retain its name for about six months before changing to the IBI Group brand.

IBI said the “closing of the asset purchase supports the continued integration of technology with all of IBI Group’s services and solutions, in particular its buildings business, where technology is central to the user experience and core to the design process.”

Aspyr-designed and developed ‘Connect Hub’ for the City of Coquitlam, British Columbia – an interactive, digital community information board

Scott Stewart, IBI Group CEO, said: “This acquisition furthers our competitive edge in the market by providing us with expertise, senior resources and enhanced capabilities in the areas of information communication technologies and smart buildings. We have worked closely with Aspyr on a number of major public-private partnership projects in Canada and have enjoyed a collaborative and productive relationship with the Aspyr team. I look forward to bringing them into the IBI family.”

Phi Ho, Aspyr president and founder, added: “Aspyr shares a common vision with IBI Group, to integrate technology into the built environment in a seamless and user-centric way. IBI’s technology pivot and data-driven approach to design is well-aligned with Aspyr’s growth strategy. Coupled with IBI’s global footprint and its 300-person strong software development team, I’m excited to accelerate the speed-to-market for our solutions and enhance the capabilities we offer to clients.”