Investigating the Role of Client Learning for Successful Architect-Client Relationships on Private Single Dwelling Projects

This research investigates the widening gap between architects and clients and the associated problems in the management of their relationship. Drawing theory from sociological and psychological perspectives, it demystifies the architect-client relationship by providing an account of how the profess...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:	Architectural engineering and design management 2011-01, Vol.7 (3), p.177-189
Main Authors:	Siva, Jessica Pooi Sun, London, Kerry
Format:	Article
Language:	eng
Subjects:	Architect-client relationships Architects Architecture Blurred Boundaries case studies client behaviour client management Client relationships Communities Construction industry Design Dwellings Learning Management Profession
Online Access:	Get full text
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Summary:	This research investigates the widening gap between architects and clients and the associated problems in the management of their relationship. Drawing theory from sociological and psychological perspectives, it demystifies the architect-client relationship by providing an account of how the profession's endeavour to maintain social distinction by creating silent boundaries around itself has led to an increased distancing between the architectural community and those clients not trained as professional architects. It raises several questions: to what extent can the boundaries between the architect and client be blurred? What is it about some relationships that are an enabler for success? Are there characteristics that underpin successful relationships? Using the narrative enquiry approach, eight in-depth interviews were conducted across five case studies of successful architect-client relationships, revealing ways in which clients effectively dealt with uncertainties on projects. The findings demonstrate that successful architect-client relationships are characterized by client learning and that over the course of the relationships architects supported clients to learn new skills, helping them overcome difficulties faced on projects. One of the most significant outcomes is that it demonstrates the potential of facilitating client learning to contribute to the development of successful architect-client relationships.
ISSN:	1745-2007 1752-7589