In praise of Low-cost Architecture

Photo of 1:25 scale model - Reworking existing agricultural Barn in Bruton, Somerset

As a practice we question the assumption that ‘good’ architecture is synonymous with luxury. Although the freedom of a big budget allows for experimentation and encourages the use of a rich palette of materials, it is our belief that the constraint of a low budget necessitates a different kind of creativity that often leads to unexpected and truly innovative architecture.

Unfortunately, Architects have not always taken on the challenge of low-cost construction. Too often we have not done enough to counteract our association with expense, and this is in part due to our reticence to engage proactively in construction costs. And yet, low-cost Architecture is of the utmost importance to our profession. It makes up the lion share of all construction projects and dominates our environment.

Although Architects may not be best placed to advise on the cheapest way to build a roof or where to buy the cheapest window, we are best placed to unlock value. We have a unique vantage point from where we are able to juggle the varied demands of a construction project and, where cost is paramount, we should take a much more proactive approach towards the budget. 

Low-cost construction offers a unique and complex set of challenges and to conjure quality with limited funds requires the Architect’s ingenuity more than ever. Like a chef making a perfect soufflé from a simple egg, an accomplished Architect should be able to take low-cost materials and produce something extraordinary.