A01 The Grenfell Tragedy Changed Everything
Rethinking the Architectural Profession in the Post-Grenfell Era – Introduction to our Series
In the wake of the Grenfell Tower tragedy and the findings of the Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase Two Report, it’s clear that significant reform is needed across the architectural and construction professions to prevent future disasters. The two recommendations - a review of architects' education and raising professional standards - are a call to action. At Enframe, we have spent the time since the Report’s publication digesting these recommendations, reflecting on the systemic issues, and deliberating on ideas in the wider context of the Report’s themes. This series of articles is our response: a set of thought-provoking pieces designed to advance the conversation around building safety, accountability, and the future of our profession.
Our process has been rigorous and collaborative, involving deep dives into the Inquiry’s insights, running ideation sessions, and taking an iterative approach to developing actionable solutions. This effort has been both challenging and rewarding, providing the opportunity to explore complex issues and dream big about the profession's potential. Each article aims not only to highlight critical gaps but also to offer debate-worthy solutions. We’ve tried to anticipate and consider the unintended consequences, knowing that without such foresight, the architectural profession will continue to fall short in its duty to protect public safety and ensure building excellence.
The series explores a range of topics crucial to reshaping the profession. From reflecting on Dame Judith Hackitt’s recent thoughts, and how the profession can learn from British Cycling, to practical proposals such as a Principal Designer Register and whether all Building Regulations Applications should be restricted to a Protected Function Registered person, our work is about more than critique; it’s about sparking discussion and supporting meaningful change. We delve into how architects could benefit from specialisation in areas like fire safety, advocate for an overhaul of the architectural curriculum, and draw lessons from regulated professions like veterinarians and barristers. Our article Protection of Function directly addresses one of the most pressing ongoing debates among architects and proposes a framework for safeguarding public interest through professional oversight.
A key theme throughout our work is the necessity of cultural change. We believe promoting a culture of accountability and competence cannot be imposed just from above; it must grow from within. Articles on strengthening collaborative efforts for fire safety and the architect's role Post-Grenfell emphasise that architects must take ownership of this transformation, building partnerships with fire safety authorities, structural engineers, and regulators. Our vision is one of collaboration, continuous improvement, and innovation, with architects at the forefront.
Inclusivity is a critical part of our vision. We explore ideas like the use of ‘ARB’ in titles, and public outreach and transparency to proposing unifying standards that engage the entire profession, not just those aligned with established bodies like RIBA. We aim to inspire an industry-wide movement that uplifts standards, brings transparency to the public, and empowers architects to make a difference.
Enframe aspires to be a thought leader, contributing ideas that shape policy and drive systemic change. Our analysis has also led to the development of digital tools that simplify compliance and support architects in achieving higher safety standards. Though these solutions are not yet market-ready, we believe they will be transformative for the industry.
In closing, we acknowledge the remaining 56 recommendations from the Grenfell Inquiry that need attention. This series is just the beginning. Enframe is committed to addressing the full scope of recommendations and supporting further initiatives that advance our shared goal of a more competent innovative industry and a safer built environment for us all.
