A Modest Proposal

A truly successful proposal merges high-quality craftsmanship with powerful architectural concepts that fully reflects the aspirations of the client, whilst respecting the wider context of the society and environment, instead of overshadowing them with the architect’s ego. Foundations leading to such a project should be laid down from the very first meetings with the client, and built upon the architect’s ability to break any self-imposed stylistic boundaries or similar dogmas. Only when the mind is clear can the architect focus on the essential art of listening and carefully reflecting on the client’s requirements in the form of a precise brief. Any such discussion should be led by an architect - bearing in mind that clients rarely understand

The studio project bears resemblance to a sophisticated client case, where the brief was reasonably detailed. After getting acquainted with the wider context of the site (Ouseburn Valley), as well as the client (Ouseburn Trust), a number of alterations to the brief were proposed and accepted following a discussion with the tutor (acting as the client in this case). For example, the vastly expanding creative industry of Ouseburn was invited into the proposal, and the function of exhibition and archive spaces were adjusted for housing the specific materials currently held by the Ouseburn Trust. The main benefit of an early and precise brief is a suggestive outline timetable and rough expanses estimate, preventing “impossible” projects (not enough budget or time) early on, before too much of the architect’s time is spent on development and client’s money on the salary, making a claim for negligence almost

Nevertheless, there are a number of ways to greatly improve the chances of a positive result. Firstly, an early site investigation as suggested in the previous paragraph. Secondly, demanding from the client clearly and correctly defined site boundary as well as encouraging the client to establish a discussion with his neighbours early on. In case a more formal approach is desired the architect can undertake these negotiations (following a written consent from the client) as a healthy relationship with neighbours can prove crucial once the time comes to receiving consent for the party walls act. Additionally, the local planning officer can highlight site-specific requirements regarding town planning strategy, whilst the English Heritage can inform on the potential listed status of any of the buildings currently on site. The local authority together with Environmental Agency can provide guidelines and information in regards Conservation areas, any protected trees or other highly valuable geological or geographical attributes of the site. When developing the studio project the “Lower Ouseburn Valley Conservation Area Character Statement” issued by Ouseburn Trust was referred to at an early stage thus ensuring the proposal was in line with the overall character of the Ouseburn as