Why Collaboration is the Future of Architecture Practices | rED Architects | EP #12

In this powerful talk at FOAID, Rajiv Parekh, Principal Architect at reD Architects, explores the evolving landscape of modern architecture and what it truly takes to build a meaningful design practice today. Sharing lessons from his architecture journey, Rajiv discusses how today’s architecture firms must move beyond isolated processes and embrace a model of collaboration that includes teams, vendors, and partners alike.

He introduces a unique approach where architects and designers co-invest in execution teams, reframing the idea of competition into shared growth. Instead of merely outsourcing to vendors, Rajiv urges architects to see them as long-term collaborators—helping create a stronger ecosystem for sustainable, future-ready architecture design.

Whether you're starting out in architecture and design, a practicing principal architect, or a design entrepreneur, this talk is packed with insights on design thinking for entrepreneurs, architecture practices, and new models for design business. It’s especially relevant for those in product design, seeking ideas for product design, or finding purpose within the greater architectural ecosystem.

This is a must-watch for anyone building or rethinking their role within the world of architectural design and sustainable architecture.

Timestamps:
00:00 – Opening: Rajiv introduces the theme of starting a design practice.
01:13 – Different practice paths: From buildings to theory to product design.
03:04 – Reality check: The many hats architects wear.
06:02 – Collaboration over competition: Why working in teams matters.
07:55 – Vendors as partners: Elevating execution teams to co-creators.
10:00 – New initiative: Architects investing in vetted vendors.
11:39 – Changing the game: Creating a stronger ecosystem through shared ownership.
12:05 – Closing: “To create is to co-create.”

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FOAID embarked on a remarkable journey to create an enigmatic experience for the architecture and design fraternity in 2014. Festival of Architecture & Design celebrates architecture & design through discussions, debates, talks and networking opportunities.
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[This video has been recorded during the FOAID event. FOAID retains the full copyrights over the video recordings and their distribution. However, all content, presentations, designs, ideas, and intellectual property shared by the participating architects and speakers remain solely their own. FOAID does not modify or alter any of the original presentations, videos, or images provided by the speakers. Please note that background music may have been changed or replaced to comply with copyright regulations. No part of the speakers’ content has been edited or tampered with, ensuring the authenticity and integrity of their work as originally presented.]