Collaborative Learning with Whittam Cox Architects

We recently visited Whittam Cox Architects, in their Chesterfield studio for an insightful learning and knowledge sharing session. 

The session, led by Anri Doda (Director, PRA) and Matt Borland (Associate Director, Whittam Cox Architects), explored the power of early collaboration between architects and façade engineers, drawing on our shared experience in delivering The Forum, Gloucester project together.

Whittam Cox commented:
“Through open discussion, we examined how collaboration early in the design process can:

• Strengthen coordination between architecture, structure, and performance.
• Identify potential challenges before they arise.
• Improve buildability, compliance, and cost efficiency.
• Deliver better design outcomes through shared expertise and trust.

“We’re not just solving problems — we’re preventing them before they happen,” shared Anri Doda. “The earlier we’re involved, the greater the impact we can have on performance, compliance, and delivery.”

For our team, the session reinforced the importance of integrated design thinking and the value that proactive, cross-disciplinary collaboration brings — both to our projects and our professional growth.

As Matt Borland noted: “Our partnership with PRA shows how collective insight and open dialogue can elevate every stage of the design journey.”

We also discussed how evolving frameworks and implications of the Building Safety Act are continuing to shape our industry and how collaboration at every level will be vital in responding effectively and responsibly.

A big thank you to Anri and the PRA team for joining us and helping to deepen our understanding of façade design, performance, and collaboration”

We hope to continue to work closely with architects as early in the design process as possible, bringing our façade experience and expertise in at the right stage in order to ensure the project runs smoothly, in budget and on time.