PRS Asia PhD Examination - Vera Kleesattel (School of Architecture and Urban Design - RMIT University)

Refocusing the Lens: Spotlighting the Hidden Role of Back-of-House  - PhD Examination by Vera Kleesattel 

This PhD explores my practice as a European architect in Asia, illuminating the inherent challenges architects from the West and East face in understanding each other. My research focuses on workflows, non-uniform design processes, communication, knowledge, tools, and how different cultural expectations play out. This study reflects on my experience and the dynamics of projects designed in one country and executed in another. 

In both cultures, the “Front of House” (FOH) is seen as the most valuable part of a project. The “Back of House” (BOH) is often neglected and viewed as unspectacular. This research shifts the focus to BOH and technical design solutions, where seemingly insignificant details and standard approaches can affect the entire project.  

I untangle the in-between part of the design process—between vision and execution—to address previously unexamined areas related to communication. In my opinion, architects often underestimate the importance of communication in collaboration with other architects of a different culture, and I will show how this affects the outcome of projects. Through the lens of other disciplines, new ways of thinking emerge as core areas of influence, highlighting the crucial role of communication in cross-cultural collaboration.