STATE of Architecture, a renowned architectural firm, and Oosterhout-based Every Second, a forward-thinking trend strategy agency, are breaking through the frustrations surrounding housing development with a unique method. The method has been aptly named BALANCE, referring to the equilibrium required to enable effective collaboration between governments, developers, and local residents.
At present, many municipalities are struggling with their housing challenges. In some cases, this even means that only two projects per year are able to move forward. Various reasons are cited for this, including existing legislation and regulations, rising construction costs, and objections from residents. Everyone aims to properly safeguard their own interests and responsibilities, but the way this is done often leads to misunderstanding and delays.
Local governments, for example, are responsible for enforcing legislation while also being expected to offer perspective and opportunities within the municipality. Developers are primarily focused on the actual realization of projects, aiming to deliver them efficiently and at speed. Finally, there are local residents, who often feel insufficiently informed by both parties and who also wish to improve their neighbourhood and community—for a pleasant and sustainable future.
STATE and Every Second regularly encounter these frustrations and challenges. One through its direct involvement in housing development, and the other through research conducted for government and the private sector. Bruce Verdonschot of STATE explains:
“There is no lack of willingness from any of the parties. However, it often seems that one party dominates the wishes and the power determining whether a project is actually realized. That is why we decided to join forces and spend a year and a half developing this new method—to guide projects through various phases and maximize their potential for realization.”
The BALANCE method is built around three key pillars, each consisting of multiple steps: assessing, translating, and activating. These are developed from all three perspectives. Whether the client is a developer or a municipality, the outcome will be the same: a clear focus on what truly matters, what is possible, and what creates balance.
More information can be found at www.balancemethode.nl.
