David Barr Architects

The ancient Roman architect Vitruvius adhered to three principles of architecture: firmitas, utilitas and venustas (universally known today as durability, utility and beauty). These principles assert that good architecture should be strong, firm and durable; functional and serve a useful purpose; and a delight for the people inhabiting it. For millennia, the Vitruvian triad has remained a keystone of design excellence.

For David Barr Architects, its own triad of guiding aspirations – smart decisions, enduring places and beautiful outcomes – is, in essence, a contemporary application of Vitruvian principles in line with the complexities of modern life. “Smart decisions is