Who is the Master Planner?

Maybe my number one observation from the different locations I have worked around the world is the distinction, or lack there of, between the roles of the Architect, Urban Designer, Planner and Engineer. The distinction would not be important or even required if it were drawn at the project inception and based on the client's interests however the distinction, more often than not, is drawn by precedence and self-opinion.

So who should be the master planner? I am a firm believer in placing urban design as a central role within a master planning project. Ultimately, to the end user, the quality of urban space determines how one feels and even uses space. The most successful master plan processes I have been involved with are those where the process is facilitated by strong urban design primes.

Increasingly, Architects are operating in this space and, in my opinion, with mixed success. Great architects do not necessarily make great urban designers in part because Urban Designers typically acknowledge a range of competing demand requirements whereas Architects are more often focussed on the aesthetic gesture.

As with most of my posts, I also view this dynamic from the view of a technical advisor role. In all cases, engineers and planners are typically engaged to input into the process. Once again, the most successful process I have been involved with required all technical inputs to help shape the design process rather than be considered as a retro-active critique of a design.

Within a master planning project, a role I seek to carve for myself is one of an integrator. This role is intended as a single point of contact for the design team who are seeking technical advice. Typically, this role provides access to instant technical responses for a range of technical disciplines but importantly, the individual knows when and where to seek more detailed advice when the questions become complex.

Personally, I am yet to have the opportunity to provide input into a real-life master planning process here in the US but the involvement I have had in design competitions here indicate that the architect and the 'grand gesture' is held in high regard which could suggest that good design development comes second... we'll wait and see.