Landsec has launched a new framework to remove some of the barriers to entry for emerging architecture firms, making it easier for them to bid to work with the company across its retail portfolio.
Following a six-month process, Landsec has identified a pool of 16 SME businesses who will be invited to pitch for future projects across retail assets including Bluewater and Trinity, Leeds (pictured). The developer said it has designed a more streamlined process making procurement more accessible to growing businesses.
Richard Carr, design director at Landsec, said: “As the retail landscape evolves, we need to adapt our approach to designing spaces to ensure that destinations remain relevant and well loved by the people who use them. To do this, we need a platform which brings new talent and more diverse skillsets to the forefront of our designs.
“We want to work with people who challenge us to approach situations differently and who can create something new because we think it will lead to better, more impactful places in the long term. By reflecting on how we can make our own processes simpler, we hope we’ve created a framework which makes exciting, larger scale projects accessible to a wider range of businesses.”
Thomas Bryans, director at IF_DO, one of the shortlisted firms, said: “The procurement process for this framework managed that very rare thing: to be smooth, straightforward, and enjoyable. It set a tone that makes us excited about the prospect of working with Landsec, and we are very pleased to have been selected.
“IF_DO was established with a belief that architecture has the power to improve lives and make communities happier and stronger, and in Landsec we have found a partner that shares our values. We are looking forward to working together to deliver socially and environmentally sustainable projects that help create better places for all.”
The shortlisted firms are:
Hayatsu Architects
Common Ground Workshop
Spheron Architects
IF_DO
Studio Gil Ltd
Architecture Doing Place LLP
bureau de change
Mcmullan Studio
Ab Rogers Design
Jestico + Whiles
Turner Works
Wren Architecture & Design
Brinkworth
studio DUNCALF
Holmes Wood
Brady Williams London
