The expanded field of operation: uncovering new modes of working in architectural practice

<p>This PhD is a reflection on the work of my practice, Graham Ford Architects. The research has uncovered how I have worked in a number of different roles to design and manage architectural projects and respond to the many complex scenarios I have found ‘in the field’. These roles include working in modes I have named as an interpreter, storyteller, design advocate, covert architect and troubleshooter. They have enabled me to transform architectural design concepts and embodied ideas in existing buildings; work outside the traditional architect work stages; create a narrative to develop an existing design or build support for a new design concept; take on the role of architect when no architect has been formally appointed and resolve problems on a construction site that no one else has been able to fix. I have been able to exploit the ‘gaps’ in technical design information where I have found the architect was either absent or not commissioned to complete the work. Through a forensic reflection on projects, I have proved that using my five roles in combination with key considerations such as landscape and heritage, has enabled new design work in my office as a process of reinvention and transformation. I have named this method ‘co-ordination as design method’. As a result, I have been able to both scale up my practice, manage high-risk scenarios, work in new sectors and develop skills in management and leadership.</p>