Abstract
The idea that architectural production never goes entirely according to plan forms a foundation and reference point for this paper. This paper therefore explores the notion and use of construction tolerances as a mediator of time between the office and the construction site. The research shows that the complexities of a separated design and construction process requires a nuanced approach to communication between these places in architectural production. First-hand experiences from architectural practice are used in parallel with practitioner interviews to construct a narrative that maps the limitations and opportunities of the architectural drawing in the physical and digital environments of architectural production. In addition, experimental design projects are used as vehicles to explore how construction tolerances are used for collaboration across time. Approximation, nuance, partial truth and vagueness are seen as core tools during the production of architecture, and for understanding the production of architecture during the translation from scale drawing, and models, to 1:1 construction. The influence of time is also explored as a key constituent of architectural production.
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
2026 Special Focus—Design Across Time
KEYWORDS
CONSTRUCTION SITE, PRODUCTION STUDIES, DESIGN RESEARCH
