Typical activities at this stage

The brief normally has complexities that are not immediately apparent. The architect is normally the driver for the detailed development of the brief and the process of discovery that this uncovers. Most student projects do not have a real client involved with the project, although real project briefs are often adapted and imaginary clients may be included. This need forms the basis of the project brief. They must seek to answer needs and aspirations that are both mundane and poetic. The direction, ambition and nature of the project can be radically altered by the interpretation of the brief that is agreed by the architect and client. ‘We always try to locate the need for architecture and that is very much about influencing the brief.’
Dan Jessen, East The brief is not a static document handed to the architect at the beginning of the project; it must be developed in collaboration with the client and users an often has to evolve to cope with changes in circumstances as the project develops. However there are many variations to this scenario. A client may decide that they need to build a new shop, contact an architect and commission them to design and manage the project. Client meetings Sketching Recording ideas Organisational diagrams Gathering information Opening up possibilities Managing complexity Research Collaboration Feedback Setting priorities
Project: Tufnell Park School Location: Islington, London, UK Architect: East Date: 2006
Internal perspective montage.