Transitioning the live project: A managed interface between the architectural academy and professional practice

Abstract

This paper sets out a case for establishing an alternative model of practice between the architectural academy and professional practice. This model of practice offers a learning focused alternative to commercial architectural enterprise. This proposal extends from reflections on a series of ‘live’ projects run through the design studio at the University of Auckland’s School of Architecture and Planning since 2007. The discussion consists of three parts. The first introduces the live project and its place in architectural education. The second provides an outline of the specific ‘triple focus’ live project that has emerged within the Auckland studio. It includes a discussion of the issues encountered and learnings gained in the transitioning of live projects from academic to commercial environments to date. The final part presents an unfolding model of practice as a managed interface through which these challenges are being met and the learnings implemented. The intention of the text is to stimulate a detailed discussion of how live projects might be transitioned from the speculative space of the academy to realisation on site whilst continuing the learning of the students involved.