A unique aspect of being part of the architectural sector is the way in which competition manifests itself. On the one side there’s no escaping the fact that we are a business, and work requirements are keenly contested by all practices. Despite this, it’s the case that you will find nothing but support, admiration and respect for the work of others throughout our profession. Yes, we are a business and need to ensure we succeed in that regard, but ultimately our passion as professionals is to see architectural projects succeed no matter who was behind them.

At the moment there is a wonderful example of the sentiment described above. We, like architectural practices around the world, were delighted to see the green light being given to a new residential project from Beijing based architects MAD. What makes this one so special is the fact that the project is underway in Paris, France rather than in their home of China or near their USA headquarters in Santa Monica. This will be the first time MAD have worked in Europe, and we are all thoroughly looking forward to seeing the successful results.

Outside of wishing our friends at MAD every success, we’ve drawn attention to this particular project in order to gain and understanding of how all forms of architecture are informed by their sense of perspective. Sadly we don’t have any inside information on this project, but we would confidently expect their work to reflect the nuances and qualities of classical French architecture, as seen through the eyes of their own cultural heritage. It’s a fascinating, dynamic service to give a fresh perspective on that which we know whilst enabling us to share the perception of others. We would certainly hope the same is just as true in respect of the commercial architecture we have delivered to China.

How does an architectural project in Paris by a Chinese practice influence or affect the work we provide in residential architecture in London? It would be fair to say that primarily it serves as a reminder of the importance of allowing all perspectives to influence design and delivery. Rather than rule out that which would not work, we seek to explore the potential of ideas that could or would deliver the aspirations of a project perfectly.