How can heritage consultants' feedback be effectively incorporated into the design process?

1 Understand the context

Before starting the design process, it is important to understand the historical and cultural context of the project. This means researching the site, its history, its significance, and its current condition. It also means identifying the relevant heritage policies, standards, and guidelines that apply to the project. These can vary depending on the location, the type, and the level of heritage protection of the asset. By understanding the context, architects can avoid potential pitfalls and align their design goals with the heritage objectives.

2 Communicate early and often

Communication is key to building a productive and collaborative relationship with heritage consultants. Architects should involve them from the early stages of the project, and consult them throughout the design process. This can help to identify and address any issues, concerns, or opportunities that may arise, and to avoid costly and time-consuming changes later on. Communication should be clear, respectful, and constructive, and should involve all the relevant stakeholders, such as clients, authorities, contractors, and community members.

3 Seek creative solutions

Heritage conservation does not mean freezing the past or rejecting the present. It means finding a balance between preserving the heritage value of an asset and adapting it to contemporary needs and expectations. Architects can seek creative solutions that respect and enhance the heritage character of a project, while also meeting the functional, aesthetic, and environmental requirements. This can involve using compatible materials, forms, and techniques, as well as introducing innovative elements that contrast or complement the existing asset.

4 Document and justify

Heritage consultants can provide valuable feedback and recommendations on the design of a project, but they are not the final decision-makers. Architects still need to document and justify their design choices and demonstrate how they comply with the heritage criteria and principles. This can include preparing drawings, reports, models, or simulations that show the impact and benefits of the design on the heritage asset. It can also include explaining the rationale and evidence behind the design decisions and addressing any questions or objections that may arise.

5 Learn and improve

Working with heritage consultants can be a rewarding and enriching experience for architects. It can expose them to new perspectives, insights, and knowledge that can improve their design skills and outcomes. Architects can learn from the heritage consultants' expertise and experience, and from the feedback and suggestions they provide. They can also evaluate and reflect on their own design process and performance, and identify areas for improvement or further development.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?