Collaboration is key.
Eleanor Jolliffe’s latest comment piece, published in Building Design, celebrates the broader role of architecture in civic impact and collaboration, exemplified by this year’s Stirling Prize winner, the Elizabeth Line. Eleanor’s piece is a reminder that architecture goes far beyond the confines of individual buildings – it's a discipline rooted in teamwork, public purpose, and a deep integration of multiple fields. Eleanor highlights the collaborative nature of large-scale projects like the Elizabeth Line and the Kings Cross masterplan, each realised through multidisciplinary efforts involving architecture, engineering, and a network of other professionals. This year’s Stirling Prize honours not just the physical infrastructure but also the collective expertise and civic-mindedness that brought the Elizabeth Line to life. Eleanor argues that architecture’s strength lies in its diversity – historically encompassing design, engineering, and civic leadership. She notes that architecture was once synonymous with “civic and intellectual leadership,” applying knowledge to benefit society. In an era where many still view architecture narrowly, Eleanor suggests the profession should embrace its ancient roots as a multifaceted, collaborative endeavour. By acknowledging architecture as more than buildings and recognising the breadth of expertise required for transformative projects, the profession can redefine its relevance in a complex, evolving world. Her article offers a compelling vision for architecture’s future – one that embraces diversity, collective impact, and a return to the “team sport” ethos that has always defined great architecture. https://lnkd.in/eTEEvhaz #architecture #collaboration #stirlingprize