Designing For Uncertainty :

This method of architectural conception can have implications for alternative forms of spatial arrangements, much larger than just at building scale, as described above.  It also has implications for new approaches at the urban scale, the emerging concept of Adaptive Urbanism.   De-coupling interior construction ( user specific ) from “Core & Shell” in mixed use buildings.  A mix of uses, clearly being the best approach to achieve and organic ( Distributed Network ) pattern of growth and development.  Modularized systems of infrastructure (smart grids) could be expanded progressively along with componentized building form, and integrating and/or following transportation systems.   This method would allow for need based growth as opposed to the current model of mass development.

Though it is common practice in architecture to separate the logic of the design process into these phases; it is rare that the core and shell phase is conceived of as a generic space, suited first to the site and second to a range of potential tenant uses.  Uncertainty is seen as something to be avoided in a market driven rational economic (real estate development ) climate.  If buildings were conceived first in a non-program specific context  it would allow the design process for this phase to prioritize building flexibility, overall performance, impact on its cultural social context and priorities of urban density.   This proposed approach may prove to be a model available in the near term, to facilitate the construction of a more robust and sustainable urban fabric.