bloody architects
Tue, 2 Sept 2008, 09:08 pmDavid Ashton22 posts in thread
bloody architects
Tue, 2 Sept 2008, 09:08 pmI had a call-out today to a new school theatre, less than a year old.The house lighting system is too complex for the staff to work and no manual.
The step lights have been glued in, some are already dead.
There are electric winches on all 6 bars.
There is no ladder, one is supposed to focus lights by raising and lowering bars till you get them all right.
Having spent all this money on bells and whistles they could only afford 20 parcans 6 fresnels and 4 cyc lights and the parcans are open backed single insulated- for kids?
No profiles.
So a million dollars on [my guess] we have a non functional teaching venue.
This is a state school paid for by tax-payers.
How do they get away with it?
re BLOODY ARCHITECTS
Tue, 2 Sept 2008, 10:23 pmHow did this post slip through my sights?
I could'nt agree more! Having spent the last 45 years of my working life in the building industry trying to interpret the stupid ideas (of a minority)of architects.
Some times they need to "get real" and obtain a little more life experience in the field of construction they are designing for.
Some architects are more concerned more with putting together a portfolio of impressive looking photos of their ideas than designing practical projects.
I recall one community theatre refurbishment,(Which i will protect by not naming) Where the council appointed architect was given a very comprehensive brief from the experienced committee on the needs of an effective stage and greenroom.
the result an absolute disaster. After all he was the professional, and what did we know. A stage with no wing or back stage, one doorway opening directly into the greenroom, "sssh they can hear you, voices carry to the audience", and no access from the stage to front of house without running around the outside of the building.
I some times think aloud with a synical mind, is it because architects base their fee on a percentage of the total cost of the commission? and therefore pre-select the more expensive matererial and methods of construction?
Well at least we have a home to perform in, ant the council do listen and help fix some of the problems. The second toilet for a cast and crew of 40+ was much apreciated, but how do we climb over the props to make an entry?