In our series on TSPC Group’s 10 divisions, we had the chance to get the latest updates and behind-the-scenes insights into the Group’s architectural design division, which has been in operation since its foundation.
TSPC Group’s Director of the Department of Architecture, Szilvia Könözsi, shared how the division is responsible for the success of projects and how they combine traditional engineering precision with cutting-edge technologies.
How does the architectural design division ensure the success of a project?
“Every client can be reassured by the fact that the general design is led by the architectural design division, guaranteeing safety and quality. For 13 years now, TSPC Group’s general design projects have been driven by the complex knowledge and direction of lead architects. Our approach to architectural design is based on general design principles, with a high level of coordination and professional collaboration to ensure that all aspects of architecture are delivered to the client’s requirements.”
How can we envision the division’s knowledge and services through a project?
“One of our most complex projects to design and implement was the the Hungarian University of Sports Science Dr. Koltai Jenő Sports Centre, where the subsurface world and the world above ground were perfectly harmonised, to which I would highlight the coordinating work of the infrastructure department with the other elements of the project. As a general design office, we rely on a holistic approach, which is essential for a project of this scale and complexity. TSPC Group provided the general design, BIM coordination, and site engineering for the facility. The project was carried out with the collaboration of around 100 architects. We had to perform unconventional design tasks to ensure that these sports and educational facilities would function properly for the users. Behind the finished work, there are many hidden elements lurking in the background and beneath the surface that support smooth use and special functions. The project has managed to integrate an 8-lane athletics track suitable for international competitions, an artificial turf football pitch with a covered grandstand, two tennis courts, and a 1,300-seat multi-purpose sports hall with modern TV broadcasting infrastructure, despite the tight site conditions.
There are very complex systems and spaces beneath the athletes’ feet, which are not even visible from street level. The presentation of the interlocking functions is further enriched by the fact that, for example, Buda’s most modern and largest ambulance station is located under the athletics track. Design challenges during the project included the placement of the massive structural substructures, the large-scale utility design, the concept of the colonnade structure surrounding the block, the support structure and electrical design for the race lighting columns, and the construction of a stormwater retention reservoir. All these tasks and the coordination of the different divisions were key to the success of the project.”
What sustainable design criteria does TSPC Group follow in its projects?
“In each project, we pay special attention to sustainable solutions and the creation of green spaces. We also consider the use of renewable energy sources, the use of natural lighting, and the optimisation of mechanical energy use in our projects. The design of drainage systems and the extension of green spaces are essential, not just because of aesthetic reasons, but because well-designed green spaces bring functionality with them. Through green architectural solutions such as green facades and increased green spaces, environmental sustainability is an integral part of the design process in all our projects. At the Hungarian University of Sports Science Dr. Koltai Jenő Sports Centre, although the space for trees was limited, we created variable green spaces.”
How has architectural design changed with the integration of AI?
“In the early stages of design, AI-assisted brainstorming and rendering aid conceptualization. However, once the design is selected, the final, engineer-controlled design process still relies on human expertise for decision-making. AI-generated visual designs after the conceptualisation phase are still a risk at the moment because they can’t take into account all design aspects, which need engineering responsibility: safety and structural requirements are essential, they require engineering control, and therefore AI only supports human decision-making in our designs. The use of AI is primarily beneficial for us in the use of parametric design and BIM services by using plug-ins that can be integrated into BIM software, as these tools help programming and automate processes, thus speeding up and optimising project progress.”
How would you describe TSPC Group’s design principles?
“Our design principles are dominated by origami-influenced shapes, minimalist style, and youthful, fresh design. At the same time, in the case of listed buildings, respect for the work of our predecessors is essential. In such projects, we do not focus on how contemporary we can design; rather, we focus on preserving historical heritage.”
What are the division’s plans and objectives for this year and the near future?
“Our aim is to maintain and further strengthen our market advantage and recognition we have gained through the years, as well as to design more award-winning projects. Our plans for the future include preserving the knowledge we have in-house of architects, BIM specialists, and project managers and leveraging this expertise into new and innovative projects. We’re also constantly striving to showcase the quality of our architectural achievements to the public through new press releases and publications.”
