Practice Statement

 

Origins

Kinetic (Architecture, Innovation, Urbanism) were established in February 2003 by Bob Ghosh , John Shakeshaft and Michael Young. The primary objective of the practice is to deliver high quality projects by maintaining energy, enthusiasm and rigour throughout the design and delivery process.

The practice has built a strong and diverse client base and gained a reputation for delivering work of the highest quality.

Their current workload ranges from the intricate remodelling of existing buildings to large scale urban and suburban interventions, adopting an innovative and analytical approach to each project.

 

Philosophy

Kinetic's philosophy is to reconcile commercial realities with an unwavering commitment to the avant-garde, where new ideas are constantly tested, moving away from a formulaic architecture.

Kinetic feel that this approach is the ideal mechanism for unlocking the potential within any project. Where possible, Kinetic look for opportunities to challenge standard solutions, adapting and refining conventional systems, as well as working alongside manufacturers to make bespoke products and components.

 

The core team has significant experience in a range of sectors spanning:

•Residential

•Arts, culture and community

•Offices / Workspace

•Retail

•Healthcare

•Education and training

•Research and development

•Mixed use

•Sustainability

 

Sustainability

The practice is at the forefront of sustainable architecture, developing their own manifesto and project structure to enhance the performance and credentials of any project.

This sustainability agenda examines all aspects of a project from economic viability (capital and revenue), social impact and cohesion, environmental considerations, including energy, waste and transportation, as well as ecological impact. These principles are integral to their approach to both individual buildings and master planning of wider areas.

Kinetic practice what they preach and adopt strict codes for the specification of materials and environmental control systems. They are also the first architects in Birmingham not only to have a car-free policy, but also offer company bicycles and full amenity facilities for cyclists.

 

Process

Clarity of vision is the underlying principle of all of Kinetic's work.

From the outset, this is achieved without compromising on radical ideas and clear thinking. There is an emphasis on deliverability, both in terms of buildability and cost control.

Kinetic's projects are driven by the desire to achieve the most elegant details, whether on the skin of a building or within its interior spaces. They believe that exceptional buildings can only be delivered by controlling quality from a strategic stage, all the way through to final detail and construction. Kinetic have an extensive knowledge of the market in terms of materials, components and manufacturing skills; where possible promoting suppliers and manufacturers who are local to a project.

Kinetic operate a rigorous process of internal review and cost analysis before presenting material to a client or supplying information to the construction team.

 

Factory 108

Located in Birmingham 's historic Jewellery Quarter on the edge of the city centre, Kinetic's studio, a former jewellery box manufacturing premises, has now become a factory for ideas, creativity and production. Kinetic have reinstated the volume of the shell from a series of confused, segregated spaces into one dramatic space. The space will allow Kinetic to maintain steady growth, whilst leaving space for exhibitions, events and conferences.

 

Collaboration

Kinetic are collaborating with leading professionals, academics, creators and thinkers, in pursuit of excellence. Great buildings and public spaces are rarely the product of individual effort, but the result of singular vision with support from a strong team of collaborators. Kinetic have a network of people and organisations with whom they work, in order to meet the client's highest aspirations for a project.