True innovation means that, as a designer, you\u2019re out on your own. It means going beyond the most current industry standards, a daunting prospect that explains why, as an industry, we too often emulate what has been done before, imitating best practice and pursuing a risk-averse approach.<\/p>\n
When \u2018more of the same\u2019 is created, the environment in which innovation flourishes is stifled. Over-analysis of new design concepts can over-complicate the process and create uncertainty around construction practicality, leading to a lengthier design phase and subsequent higher costs. In hindsight, it\u2019s questionable whether some of today\u2019s landmark buildings would be built today given more complicated procurement processes and the increasingly contrasting objectives of architects, developers, contractors, engineers and government.<\/p>\n
Overcoming hurdles in innovation<\/strong><\/p>\n Every so often, though, the risk is taken and it pays off. To break down some of these barriers to innovation, we need to start by reviewing the drivers for each stakeholder, and how these might change depending on the role of a building. For example, innovation is much more prevalent in the public sector, where structures like art galleries, law courts, museums and universities are driven by reputation. Universities, meanwhile, are more likely to invest in innovation to attract the best students.<\/p>\n For example, AECOM is working with the University of Technology (UTS) in Sydney on the new Dr. Chau Chak Wing, designed by distinguished architect Frank Gehry. The defining characteristic of this building is its unique masonry fa\u00e7ade, which contorts and twists in a three-dimensional plane for the full height of the 14-storey structure. These inclinations and curvatures created structural engineering challenges not normally encountered in cavity clay masonry veneer fa\u00e7ade construction, and go beyond current codes and standards. In collaboration with UTS and the brick supplier, AECOM developed a unique brick, tie, mortar and backing system that solved the load, constructability and complex geometrical issues to generate a practical solution to enable such an extraordinary fa\u00e7ade, and allow a near-impossible feat of engineering to be realised. It was crucial for all design teams to work closely together to ensure the complexities were effectively addressed and that the final solution successfully captured the architect\u2019s design, which is set to push the boundaries and set a precedent for future architectural design in Australia.<\/p>\n A thorough understanding of the wider benefits of innovation for all stakeholders will help us to drive forward unique projects that may otherwise be overlooked. For example, private developers tend to be more driven by achieving higher margins, which require more rapid construction of buildings and perhaps less focus on the design stage. The reality is that iconic buildings will cost more to construct. However, it is more likely that they will attract higher-profile tenants and longer-term tenancies, which is a key opportunity in sectors such as commercial and retail.<\/p>\n Practical, logical thinking cannot be underestimated with regard to its critical role in achieving iconic structural forms and innovation. No amount of complex analysis can transform a fundamentally flawed concept if it is missing the key ingredients of buildability and efficiency. In many instances, it is technology that is progressively removing this barrier and opening up exciting opportunities for invention. It can enable optimisation of structures and an understanding of behaviour that once could only be estimated in a manner that lead to conservatism and simplification. We should look to use this important resource to overcome over-complicated concepts and drive practical solutions to existing constructability issues.<\/p>\n Bravery is not a word often heard in the construction sector. It is more of a taboo than an attribute of honour. But bravery is what is needed to inspire future generations who enjoy and benefit from our iconic buildings. Bravery from not just engineers, but a collaboration of visionary souls in our industry, who together can make better informed decisions that not only satisfy the aspirations of the ultimate building end user, but also drive the long-term vision for our cities to support economic growth and prosperity.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n
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<\/a>Stephen Giblett (stephen.giblett@aecom.com) is director of building structures for AECOM in Sydney.<\/em><\/p>\n