Presentation
by Aldo Norsa
We continue our series of articles dedicated to leading integrated design companies, focusing on their philosophy, particularly in relation to the operational and organisational opportunities they seize in a constantly evolving market. In this case, we have chosen Open Project, a company that has been operating in Bologna for 40 years.
It has particular expertise in the design of student residences, office buildings and accommodation facilities: sectors in which Open Project believes it can best combine creativity, methodology and the use of new technologies (starting with BIM and artificial intelligence).
This article is divided into contributions that the company's owners asked 12 managers from the main areas of expertise to write, with the following titles: 1) sustainability and research on the useful life cycle of buildings, 2) restoration of modern buildings (with particular reference to disused architecture), 3) “authorisation process engineering”, 4) the need for a truly executive (in other words, constructive) project, 5) 3D modelling using BIM and the adoption of artificial intelligence, 6) the skills, tools and results expected from effective construction management, 7) the adoption of a quality system as a strategic choice.
But, in conclusion, no amount of artificial intelligence can ever replace the professionalism (and creativity) needed to manage the complexity of human and relational relationships in such a way that the project ensures the best responses to the changing needs of users (once these have been adequately clarified through discussion and dialogue). This is what is needed to consolidate customer trust on every occasion and strengthen the reputation of a design company (in which many talented young people work).
Open Project profile
by Francesco Conserva, architect and vice-chairman;
Maurizio Piolanti, engineer and chairman, Open Project
Open Project is an integrated design company that tackles complex urban and construction projects with creativity and organisation. Its target markets are diverse, but in recent decades it has acquired specific expertise in student housing, workspaces and hotels. How does it approach the market? By combining research and innovation with a focus on product quality (a tailor-made approach), delving deeply into issues related to urban regeneration and the redevelopment of existing buildings, which are transformed into new structures with new, cross-cutting and flexible functions. The holistic approach that combines 40 years of experience with creativity, method and new technologies (BIM, AI, etc.) is the hallmark of Open Project's “culture”.
Our company's activity is based on respect for the needs of the client, who is accompanied throughout the process with cross-cutting insights that enhance the quality of the project and make it “contemporary”, “sustainable” and “changeable” over time. The transformation of the architectural structure is therefore not seen as a constraint or an affront to the original design idea, but rather as a great opportunity to be highlighted during the conception of the project.
proposal. To respond to the complexity of our work, we have put in place an organised structure that addresses the various specialisations vertically, while always maintaining a lateral view of cross ncutting objectives.
Below, we have gathered some reflections from 12 of our collaborators, which aim to illustrate some current issues and the structure of our organisation.