Ruthless Pragmatism is a method + attitude using provocative, agile and tactical intervention as a way of both exploring the physical and behavioural condition of a place. This approach to the delivery of physical, social, environmental, cultural + economic development uses pragmatic + observed analysis of individual and collective behaviour to understand the functionality +dysfunctionality of people + place. Material + human resources are identified within the immediate context + given agency through creative, productive + performative action. The role of the architect is recast as a maker through learned improvisation + live action rather than a creator of drawn material to be interpreted + delivered by others. The capacity and agency of a place becomes developed in tandem with place and programme. Action is perpetual, nothing is finished everything is to be completed.
interactive adaption of derelict wall as a catalyst for creating Pollokshields Playhouse, a live action urban laboratory for conceiving and testing alternative futures for the community of Pollokshields, with Shirley Hottier, Recoat, Rachel O'Neil, Kat Loudon
adaption of redundant railway arch in Glasgow to provide creative and productive workspace utilising reclaimed timber and local creative community
intervention into a school playground to provide an interpretive and performative place of play and interaction; conceived, tested and delivered with the children of Mount Florida Primary School
intervention to reactivate a derelict church space as a place of non-religious sanctuary in the Glasgow community of Laurieston, designed in collaboration with visual artist Jennifer Argo
swimming pool created by Beith Community Development Trust to activate under-used green space during summer, created using donated hay bales and black plastic sheeting from local farmers
