Concluding Practice Exploration

During the last few weeks, we were able to establish some interesting discoveries on three seemingly different practices. This depicts an account of the present status of these firms which continue to be explored by many in the Architecture community. The articles presented in the last week were meant to give an account of what it means to be an architecture practice in today’s world and what challenges are being faced however not much was said on how to overcome. 

Most Architecture practices begin with the mission of propounding exceptional design and in some cases they are limited to a specific niche – This has proven to be a good thing. It has also been established that after changes in management and in the practice, new markets are then being explored. This is in the event that the changes inspire a positive evolution, which has been the case for HOK, SOM and Foster + Partners. They are frequently involved in a variety of design projects which cause the creation of various teams. Nonetheless, these practices choose to focus on specific areas of design as they have eventually established their inability to implement every project type, then centering on strength. More Strategic analysis would suggest establishing more diverse and wider team approaches for different markets. For example, creating local teams in areas were the project is situated or increasing number of interdisciplinary resources on a team project – structural engineers for  design, building envelope specialists etc. This is not to undermine the relevance of virtual teams in Construction but it is always good way of engaging stakeholders when human resources are sourced from the site location. However this is my opinion based on my experience working in design and construction during the last decade. With all the information sourced over the last few weeks, there is a clear indication that a successful practice goes beyond just delivery, service or ideas but is established in the premise of strategically positioning itself in the apparent market.