3
briefing, design and construction

Engagement is required that instils a sense of purpose and consequently runs over into a productive fit between the physical opportunities of the building and how it is used. These are the ingredients for successful buildings.

Gabriel Aeppli’s opinion piece on briefing and construction reflects on the importance of shared understanding, mutual respect and defined responsibilities to achieve ambitious goals. The description of the London Centre for Nanotechnolgy is included here, rather than as a case study at the end of the book, as it raises so many issues pertinent to Parts 3 and 4, and will hopefully help the reader reflect on the interrelationships and importance of each stage of the process.

Fiona Duggan describes methodologies to ask the right questions of the right people to determine the brief.

Andy Ford describes the challenges facing the university sector to achieve improved environmental performance, in order to lead the way towards living within the means of our planet.

Optimising good outcomes through the design and construction process is discussed by Ian Taylor, highlighting the importance of continuity in the project team, commitment to ambitious outcomes, and proactive contracting to achieve quality.