Foreword

Reading this book is an exciting voyage of discovery for any architect. The discovery that not only is it possible for a practice to gain a more in-depth understanding about a topic of personal or practice interest, but that many of us are already undertaking elementary research in our practices, unaware that this is what we are doing.

Unaware that with the right approach, collaboration with academia or other more experienced practices, or simply by trial and error, we may access funding which could elevate the innovative and stimulating original elements of the work which we enjoy. This, in turn, could create a unique marketing advantage, a USP which can draw clients towards us, enabling us to attract better more profitable projects.

The evidence is here that published and shared research, whether that research is done by a one man band or a large and established firm, can garner intellectual status, client reassurance and peers respect for a practice. It furthers the knowledge of the whole profession and can be a stepping stone to a more fulfilling and intellectual work life.

This easy to access, masterly and long awaited book by two of the architecture profession’s leading research gurus, Anne Dye and Flora Samuel, uses case studies from a wide range of practices which tell their research stories first hand. It splits into the different genres of research to show us all the methods, the joys and the gains to be had: from more profit though commercial specialism, to a more altruistic contribution through sharing cultural and social knowledge.

The research projects themselves are an inspirational and uplifting read but, more than this, a clear message is spelled out throughout: do more research, indulge your passion, find funding, share your methods and results and your work will repay you many fold.

Let’s get researching!

Jane Duncan
RIBA President 2015