Audrey Mertens, Yaprak Hamarat and Catherine Elsen
This research focuses on the interactions between architects and end-users during the design process of housing projects, both experiencing challenges and friction points when…
Abstract
Purpose
This research focuses on the interactions between architects and end-users during the design process of housing projects, both experiencing challenges and friction points when meeting.
Design/methodology/approach
The authors conducted a systematic literature review (SLR), based on and adapted from Kitchenham and Charters' work (2007). The thematic analysis of N = 104 identified articles reveals 13 main themes and 30 subthemes specific to architects, end-users and the interactions of architects and end-users, and 3 main groups of other actors intervening in these dynamics. The authors organize the data by actors and the actors' social encounters, themes and subthemes. The authors focus on some aspects, given possible evolution of practices.
Findings
The authors question the role of architects and the ways both parties share respective knowledge. The authors also discuss the various scales of social encounters depicted through literature, from traditional discursive meetings to participatory practices, and raise the lack of convincing tools genuinely used in current housing architecture practices. Finally, the authors point out the need for further field research in order to practically bridge the gap between researchers and practitioners.
Originality/value
The authors present an overview of the most relevant papers, organized in a table and grouped by themes. This represents a major output of this SLR, and gives the concerned readers the opportunity to get a grasp on readers' sub/theme of interest.
Details
Keywords
Çiğdem Yönder, Audrey Mertens, Yaprak Hamarat and Catherine Elsen
In this paper, we investigate the current conditions as well as possibilities of a better interaction between architects and user–clients in the Belgian single-family housing…
Abstract
Purpose
In this paper, we investigate the current conditions as well as possibilities of a better interaction between architects and user–clients in the Belgian single-family housing context. We specifically focus on issues around client learning and knowledge sharing of architectural services.
Design/methodology/approach
Following the research through design methodology, we report on a co-design process converging towards a multi-layered journey map tool. We analyze the discussions held between architects and user-clients during “Ideation & Design” workshops that led to this specific tool idea, within a broader co-design process context.
Findings
In terms of client learning and knowledge sharing, there is a need for (1) sharing the process knowledge, (2) clarifying responsibilities and missions of both parties and (3) considering different levels of engagement of user-clients. Current ways of interaction around these issues are mostly based on verbal exchanges during meetings and written explanations in contracts. In terms of future expectations, it has been revealed that both parties are in favor of (1) keeping the relationship trustworthy but informal, (2) using visual ways of representing the architectural journey and (3) providing additional “pedagogical” support when needed.
Originality/value
Our work not only discusses current practices regarding client learning and knowledge sharing of architectural services but also highlights the future-oriented aspirations of architects and user-clients. It proposes actionable design criteria and a multi-layered journey map tool to support the relationship between architects and user-clients, both transferable to architectural education.
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Gwendoline Schaff, Ann Petermans, Jan Vanrie, Fabienne Courtejoie and Catherine Elsen
Most older people wish to age “in place”. However, as current housing is mainly unsuitable for later life, architects have a key role to play. Yet, there is little architectural…
Abstract
Purpose
Most older people wish to age “in place”. However, as current housing is mainly unsuitable for later life, architects have a key role to play. Yet, there is little architectural consideration for the notion of “ageing in place” and its various facets, beyond a functional focus. Architects seem to lack support to grasp inhabitants' sensible needs, and thus synergies with other human-centred disciplines could be enlightening. To ensure homes are designed in line with people's wellbeing, the authors aim to provide a state-of-the-art view, as to build a model supporting architects through their understanding of older people-environment relationships.
Design/methodology/approach
In this paper, the authors investigate the key concepts that could enrich architects' design approaches on “ageing in place”. A narrative literature review scrutinising English- and French-written publications from the last twenty years in various disciplines was conducted, with a focus on older people and non-institutionalised housing.
Findings
The results highlight five essential perspectives to be taken into account when questioning housing for older people: health, affective, social, built and contextual perspectives. Their meaning and ties are developed and then synthesised into considerations, calling for architectural creativity.
Originality/value
This fivefold theoretical model adds to the existing architectural body of knowledge by adopting a multidisciplinary and multidimensional angle, going beyond the predominantly pragmatic vision associated with ageing. It provides stakeholders in architecture with a fresh and clear insight of meaningful relationships between older people and their residential environment.