Learning to Love Design & Construct - An Architects Perspective

Many architects see the builder as the enemy in a building project, but I think we can all agree this attitude is old fashioned and counterproductive. When a relationship based on partnership and co-operation can be created between the builder and architect, great results can be achieved.

When I was a young architect, I wanted to be the “big” architect with the fat pen, creating the concept design for projects, and I know I am not alone in this. We aim to be the starchitect, sitting up on high, espousing nuggets of wisdom, exerting their will on the world and producing amazing and magical buildings. Of course, there is still a part of me that wants this, and I have had my moments wielding the fat pen, however, these moments have been fleeting and generally unfulfilling.

My most fulfilling work experiences have been in getting buildings built, working with the builders, solving problems and learning more about how building and architecture entwine. For me, there is nothing better than seeing the building rise from the ground. From an architect’s perspective, design is the process of layering concepts and decisions, starting with the overall approach and notions regarding massing, circulation, texture and façade. These are then fed into countless design decisions.

Should the windows be recessed or proud? Should the ground floor be recessed? Should structure be expressed or hidden? The answer to these questions are found in the design concepts that were decided at the beginning of the process. While we can all agree that the initial concept work is important, laying the foundation for the building’s design, the difficulty for the architect is to remain true to those initial concepts while adding the subsequent layers, or answering those subsequent questions.

Often your answers need to respond to information coming in from engineers, clients, government bodies and community groups and builders. It’s an assault of inputs and information, through which you need to keep sight of your initial concepts while working with all other contractors to ensure a true partnership is achieved.

Redcliffe Hospital Carpark, QLD

As seen on many projects, the architect/builder relationship is one that can be most affected. We have worked on many large projects under the D&C model, with the assistance of a Design Manager from the builders’ side, where desirable built outcomes have been achieved. These outcomes were achieved by ensuring all parties demonstrated respect towards each other’s area of expertise, creating an environment that fostered teamwork.

This is done quite simply by assembling a good team and respecting what all the players bring to the table. Architects, design managers, construction managers and site foremen greatly appreciate it when their knowledge is respected. Builders have a huge amount of knowledge in the sequencing and mechanics of building and can help cut costs in ways that will not alter the overall design of the building. As architects we can allow flexibility within the design and documentation, where it makes sense, and resolve unforeseen issues together. With this relationship of give and take established, respect which is given is then returned.

Within the D&C framework, it is often difficult for the architect to transition from being the architect designing the building for the client or end-user, to working alongside the builder. From sub-contractors to Construction Managers, builders have a genuine desire to produce well-designed buildings. By working together and getting the most cost-efficient designs established, the D&C process has a greater possibility of achieving this for all parties.

From the architect’s side, we also face the challenge when the team or personnel are changed, and knowledge of the project is lost. This can happen within a design studio, or if a project is moved to a different company. This is the ultimate test of a design concept and the skill of the architect who takes over the project.

In both cases, the only way to success is for the new architect to quickly take ownership of the design and the building, and work closely with the design and construction team to follow and enhance the design concepts of the building. The design of the building does not stop when the concept design is approved, the design process only gets harder through the subsequent stages of the process, value management, detail services, structural integration, and buildability analysis.

We all have our own areas of expertise, experience and ingenuity that we can bring to the design and build process. When all the experts are listened to and a strong design concept is followed, not only will it be a more enjoyable process, the project will have a more successful outcome. And what is the point if you can’t have a bit of fun along the way?

Morgan Corkill, Sunshine Coast Assistant Studio Manager