Not so long ago it was understood that architecture was used to represent and reinforce the values of a society. Although the more obvious examples of this form of production can be seen as negative, threatening or even megalomaniac, society and its institutions can consciously promote positive messages through their civic building programmes. The built quality, accessibility and enthusiasm for innovation shown in our designs for new town halls, civic offices, schools, libraries, public spaces provide positive models for communities to reflect self worth or 'civic pride'. Good new buildings increasingly act as a focus for regeneration, cohesion and change in rundown areas of urban centres. What is inspiring is that innovative design is interestingly embraced by local government.
