What is the function of design charrettes?

Design charrettes serve as collaborative sessions that bring together various stakeholders—including architects, clients, and community members—to engage in the design process. The primary function of these charrettes is to foster a shared vision among all participants, ensuring that everyone’s perspectives and needs are considered in the development of the project. This collaborative approach promotes open dialogue and generates creative solutions, helping to establish a common understanding and direction for the design.

In contrast, feasibility studies would primarily assess whether a project is viable, while defining budgets and timelines focuses on the practical aspects of project management. Evaluating project deliverables involves assessing whether the outcomes meet the predefined criteria or goals, which comes into play later in the project lifecycle. Therefore, the essence of a design charrette is very much centered on the collaborative and vision-setting aspect of the design process, making it a critical component in engaging all relevant parties from the start.