About Us.
The Special Projects Co. is a design-led consultancy for temporary architecture and large-scale public art.
We specialise in guiding complex, temporary projects from ambition to reality. Working at the intersection of design, construction, and public space, we support artists, designers, producers, and institutions to deliver projects that are bold, buildable, safe, and achievable.
From early concept through to installation and de-rig, we focus on design viability, risk management, and practical delivery—ensuring ideas survive contact with real-world constraints.
Positioning
Temporary architecture and public art operate under unique pressures: ambitious creative intent, tight programmes, public safety, unpredictable sites, and short build windows. These projects demand more than good ideas—they require rigorous thinking, detailed planning, and experienced oversight.
Our consultancy exists to bridge the gap between creative vision and physical execution. We bring clarity to complex proposals, identify risks early, and shape designs so they can be delivered efficiently, safely, and within budget. The result is work that retains its conceptual strength while standing up to the realities of construction, logistics, and public use.
Approach
Design Viability First
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Every project begins by asking a critical question: can this be built as intended?
We interrogate concepts early to test structural logic, material behaviour, tolerances, access requirements, and build methodology. This ensures design decisions are informed, realistic, and resilient—before time and money are committed.
Risk as a Design Tool
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Risk is not something to address at the end of a project; it is embedded into every design decision. We identify and manage risks across safety, programme, budget, procurement, and site conditions, translating them into clear actions and solutions. This proactive approach protects both creative intent and delivery outcomes.
Detail Matters
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Temporary does not mean improvised. We develop robust design details that consider fixing strategies, sequencing, interfaces, transport, and repeated handling. Well-resolved details reduce uncertainty on site, streamline installation, and improve safety for crews and the public alike.
Practical Delivery Thinking
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We think like builders as much as designers. Our work considers fabrication methods, supplier capabilities, access constraints, lifting strategies, weather exposure, and site logistics. This ensures projects move smoothly from drawings to reality.
Services
Concept Design and Development
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We support projects from the earliest concept stage by providing ideation and art-working.
Design Development & Technical Review
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We assess and refine designs to improve buildability, safety, and efficiency—while protecting the core creative idea. This includes structural logic, material selection, fixing methods, and installation sequencing.
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Scope & Specification
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A core part of our consultancy is defining a clear, concise scope of works alongside robust specifications before a design reaches a fabricator. Removing ambiguity at this stage saves time and cost, and prevents confusion later in the process. Fabricators work best with precise, well-structured information—and that is exactly what we deliver.
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Cost Benefit Analysis and Value Engineering
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We challenge assumptions and recommend design and material choices through a rigorous cost–benefit analysis. This same process can also be applied retrospectively, supporting value engineering when required later in the project.
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Risk Management & Compliance
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We identify, assess, and mitigate risks across the full lifecycle of a project. Our work supports compliance with safety standards, public liability requirements, and local authority approvals without compromising design intent. And we draft comprehensive Risk Management and Method Statements (RAMS), as required.
Delivery Strategy & Logistics Planning
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We plan how a project will be fabricated, transported, installed, maintained, and removed. This includes programming, access planning, site coordination, and working within live public environments, in compliance with the aforementioned RAMS.
Contractor & Fabricator Liaison
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We act as an informed interface between designers and makers, ensuring clear communication, realistic expectations, and aligned understanding across all parties.
Who We Work With
We collaborate with artists, architects, designers, producers, cultural institutions, local authorities, and brands delivering work in public space. Whether supporting a single artwork or a large-scale temporary environment, our role adapts to the needs of each project.
Case Studies
Our case studies demonstrate how careful design development, risk management, and delivery planning enable ambitious ideas to be realised in challenging contexts.
Each project highlights:
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The initial design challenge
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Key risks and constraints
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How design decisions were shaped to improve viability
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Practical solutions for fabrication, logistics, and installation
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Successful outcomes in public space
Call To Action
If you are developing a temporary structure or public artwork and need confidence that it can be delivered safely, efficiently, and without compromise, we can help.
Get in touch to discuss your project, your constraints, and how we can support the journey from concept to completion.