Creature’s Chief Design Officer discusses our design philosophy.
Design as it relates to the built environment is traditionally one of the primary silos in the building process, sometimes even siloed from the client and end-use of a building or space. This observation was one of the main catalysts that led to the development of the Creature Building Platform, as well as our emphasis on utilizing modular components whenever possible in our capital projects. We believe this way of thinking is the way forward for the construction industry.
At Creature, our mission is to create an integrated building platform that seamlessly improves the lives of our employees and customers by removing those silos and simplifying the building process. We are constantly improving our processes and executions, so that we are able to deliver unheard-of results. The way we most often do that is through utilizing modular solutions in the building process, and that starts with thoughtful, intentional conversations and design. Leading that charge is Creature’s Chief Design Officer, Mike Gibson.
When asked about his philosophy on design and how it integrates with and impacts Creature’s work, he said this: “The best word I have found to describe what I believe is the proper perspective on the role of the designer in the building process is ‘guide.’” He further explains, “For me, the process of design is one of thinking critically about a set of variables and arranging those variables for the enjoyment of all the stakeholders involved in the implementation of the process and use of the product.”
Those stakeholders include Creature’s employees, the client, the contractor, subcontractors, laborers, their families, the AHJ, and the community surrounding the final location of the project.
In order to achieve alignment across the entirety of a project, one of the questions that we must ask in the very beginning of every project is whether modular components are crucial in achieving the project objectives. Modular components have the potential to improve the lives of everyone involved in a construction project, but how those components are deployed will be the difference in whether they are just a gimmick or a game changer. To change the game, modular components must be considered one of the tools, not the only tool, to be used in a construction project. Said another way, modular can be a very effective hammer, but not everything is a nail. Identifying the most effective way to deploy modular components, if at all, within each project requires an in-depth understanding of the entirety of the building process and of modular construction.
The modular solutions we deploy can range from the entire building being volumetric modules, using flat packed pre-manufactured components with small volumetric pieces, like bathrooms, or employing modular MEP components, like overhead racks or specific pieces like headwalls and footwalls. Whatever solutions are selected, the design of the building as a whole, including the integration of all systems, must be organized in order to take full advantage of the potential value these components deliver. If these components are an afterthought, the value cannot and will not be realized.
At Creature, we have seen the value in modular components as an answer to improving the lives of our employees and customers. The strategic and thoughtful deployment of modular components, understanding and ownership of the entire building process, as well as a culture of accountability and conscientiousness all contribute to a successful project — and all begin with forward-thinking and considerate design.
If your capital project could benefit from our expertise with traditional construction, utilizing modular components, or full, volumetric modular construction, let’s talk.