“We should leave things in a far better state than when we found them. This applies to the built environment and nature.
We can only achieve this by focusing on people first.
Sustainable, liveable design comes from a deep understanding of how people use space, how they move around and what they want for themselves and their communities.
If, as an industry, we can recognise that people come first, then we can create projects that genuinely serve people's needs.
We all need to be pushing in the same direction. We can do this through communication, education and collaboration.
It begins with listening, actively and clearly. We should never stop learning.”
Rob is the managing director of JDA Architects, a progressive architecture practice that puts people at the heart of its projects. These projects include care facilities, workspaces, community housing and private residential dwellings.