Speculative developments, masterplans and all works of architecture are a form of chronotopic speculation. Control is fleeting. The confluence of forces that must navigated on the long road of architectural production means the architect is only one voice in a melee. The scored masterplan is a tool for communicating an architectural specificity that acknowledges this inevitable co-authorship of the design by others.

In critique of the 2022 mixed-use planning proposal for Murphy’s Yard in Kentish Town the project retains the existing builder’s yard beside new homes and community amenities. Considering what we are willing to live alongside and whether we have a right to peace in our homes.

A community infrastructure trust, in which the burden of the cost of construction is split between the council and individuals, provides foundations, MEP services and key structural components as beautiful and generous, institutionally funded assets.