Page 11 - Healthcare + Aged Care

People

Michael O’Brien

Principal

Having led dozens of major projects to completion, The final key to success? For Michael it’s a strong idea
both here and across the Americas and Asia-Pacific that starts at the design stage and is carried through
region, Michael O’Brien knows what makes for a into the build. Which is something that Studio Design
successful project. A clear understanding from the + Architecture is well set up to deliver.
outset between the client and architect of the project’s
goals is key – as is trust and communication during the “The founding concept needs to be expressed in both
build stage. the architecture and interior at a macro and micro level.
For our architects, having a close working relationship
And good communication doesn’t mean saying with the Design Studio allows that rigour to permeate
everything all at once, he adds. For example proper all our projects.”
construction documentation shouldn’t thoroughly
depict every element of the design, says Michael – Michael leads our Wellington studio team.
that would never be practical. Which means that a
reasonable number of questions from the contractor
should always be expected. “These are not errors or
omissions and it’s a reason to keep communication
open between the client, contractor and the architect
all the way through.”