Critical Practice
Theory (MANIFESTO)
By triangulating between the worlds of theory and practice we
aim to develop your critical understanding of the agency of the architect
in relation to others in the construction industry and creative economy,
and the value architectural design skills can bring to the built environment
and other fields. The manifesto is your opportunity to articulate a
personal definition of your professional purpose, making conscious
ambitions about your future trajectory, and encouraging commitment to
an evolving framework or map in order to strategise a route to it. You will
need to read, listen and research subject areas and themes in order to
place yourself within the evolving network of practices.
The manifesto should consider the role of the architect in addressing
pressing concerns confronting the profession, and the planet as a whole.
Framing intentions within the theories and issues surrounding the history
of the profession and the context of contemporary practice, you will needto set out:
WHAT is needed to be done,
WHY this is necessary, and
HOW the propositions would be implemented.
Look into the Learning Outcomes set out below to give you some pointers
of considerations you might want to draw into your work.
On completion of this essay you are expected, within a personal
proposition about a future professional life, to be able to:
O.1 The influence of history and theory on the spatial, social and
technological aspects of architecture.
O.2 Understand the nature of professionalism and the duties and
responsibilities of architects to clients, building users, constructors, co-
professionals and wider society.
O.3 Discuss the different organisational structures to operate ethically
and successfully in practice including the role of the architect within the
design team and construction industry recognising the importance of
current methods and trends in the construction of the built environment.
O.4 Demonstrate knowledge of the basic management theories andbusiness principles related to running both an architect’s practice and architectural projects, recognising current and emerging trends in the construction industry, as well as regulatory frameworks and procedures, and the industries and organisations that affect the process of bringing
design concepts to fruition.
O.5 Demonstrate a critical awareness of how knowledge in other
Learning Outcomes
Something to keep in
mind, not just to follow as
a ticking exercise.
Overview
disciplines can have an impact on the practice of architecture and a
critical understanding of the ways knowledge is advanced through wide-
ranging practical and theoretical research to produce clear and logically
structured arguments verbally and in illustrated written work relating to
architectural theory, culture and design.
O.6 Identify individual learning needs and understand the personal
responsibility required to prepare for qualification as an architect.
