Improving communication and teamwork between architects and contractors has been the focus of a plethora of reports and recommendations – from Latham and Egan to Farmer – and initiatives – like the hailing of Building Information Modelling as a solution. Meanwhile, the emergence of modern methods of construction, something we welcome, has brought people from manufacturing into that contracting role, presenting a new series of challenges to the status quo. We all know that if we can get it right, we will all save money, time and a lot of headaches. 

 

At Stride Treglown we work closely with contractor colleagues on public and private sector projects across London and the UK.  We design and deliver schools, healthcare and hospital facilities, higher education buildings and student housing. We act as executive architect on some of the capital’s leading projects – from Kings Cross to Wembley Park. 

 

And yet, despite our many years’ experience spanning almost every sector, we know we can still improve the process and a deliver better, faster, smoother service. 

 

Which is why we have appointed our first Design Manager, Laurence Reilly. Bringing 20+ years’ experience of contracting, his role is wide ranging. He will cast a critical eye nationally and assess all our offices and sector teams. Laurence will tell us honestly how we can improve our processes. He will also – in the words of one of my colleagues – act as ‘translator’ between us architects and our contractor colleagues. And vice versa.

 

 

Ultimately our aim is to improve – and to help others within the design team improve too – to deliver projects that are a success for clients, users and the wider community. And to make things simpler, more efficient, and more enjoyable.