IS GOVERNMENT PROCUREMENT AND DESIGN AND BUILD KILLING THE CRAFT OF CONSTRUCTION?

Government procurement, design and build and the RIBA fee scale means that there is a split between the makers and the designers. With the split in procurement many architects never tackle the complexities of detailing and never have the opportunity to see the reality of the construction site. Opportunities of taking site knowledge and construction ‘know-how’ back into the office are more limited than ever before.

We now have specialisms developing within the architectural sector. Some practices now deal only with the complexities of planning and do not engage with the detailing and construction phases. There are now also specialist executive architects who only deal with delivery.

The problem with the projects that arrive to the executive architect following planning permission is that there are frequently issues with the size and positioning of key elements such as risers and plant rooms. This is why the executive architect should become part of the team before planning permission is granted.

In the past where we did not have this split in procurement and an architectural practice had employees who could build and issues were resolved before the project went to planning…the architect’s details showed attention to the craft of making.

Now on design and build contracts to save money some main contractors engage trade contractors to complete the working drawings. The problem is the trade contractors do not typically work through the key interface details. The architect is also sometimes now cut out of their traditional co-ordination role. This is a downgrading of the role of the architect which can lead to very costly co-ordination clashes on site.

The architect’s drawings are there to fix zones and methods, establish tolerances and put in realistic zones to allow construction to happen. However drawings should also be for more than this, it is worth remembering why buildings of the past have atmosphere, space and beauty….they were well detailed and well built, they showed both artistry and cultural ambition.

There is a danger that procurement and design and build contracts will lead to the loss of the ability to build and demonstrate the craft of making. Buildings that are not detailed with a knowledge of craft are unlikely to contribute to our cultural heritage. Architects have been complicit in the marginalisation of our role in the construction process as they push away liability to the detriment of the project.

Procurement is unlikely to change anytime soon, however architects can work with contractors and clients toward ensuring a more integrated approach between design and making to produce well-crafted buildings. In this way everyone’s contribution will be to the benefit of the project.