4 Client Brief
Understanding and developing a coherent client brief is essential to any project. Simply put: to get the right answer you must first ask the right question.
The Policy Context, Historic Value and Social and Cultural Significance will all influence the brief, which should prioritise the project goals. An iterative approach, including early discussions with regulatory bodies and stakeholders, should be adopted to ensure the development of a comprehensive and practical Client Brief which is in line with policy requirements. The policy context should not be seen as restrictive: NPPG 18 states that: "conservation should not be backward looking".
For scope of the Trongate study, see:
Scope and Parameters of the StudyConsultants
- Advise whether the brief is achievable and the broad impact on the existing building.
- Identify potential conflicts between the brief, the policy context and practicalities, such as the need to increase thermal efficiency and meet current regulations without damaging the historic fabric.
- Point out that trade-offs between functionality and on-going running costs might be necessary, and make the client aware of how values and budget will influence this.