The concept of project space: Studying construction project teams from a spatial perspective

Abstract

Within this article the concept of space as a social phenomenon is discussed in relation to collaboration and knowledge sharing within construction design projects. Space has been neglected in project literature and we argue for the relevance to introduce a spatial focus in project literature. Through a qualitative study of three construction design project teams, we collected observations and interview data. In order to support collaboration and knowledge sharing in a project design team we found that (a) spatial awareness within a project space becomes relevant, (b) the possibility for all team members to influence the design, the physical presence of the client and a facilitating leadership style creates a trusting working environment, (c) and different perceptions of project space have implications for engaging in the space. A spatial perspective gives new insights in project teams and how space can support collaboration and knowledge sharing.