In Architecture we are ultimately concerned with what we observe. So when uncertainty hits a design, what we are really uncertain about is our own limited vision of it. 

Observer’s principle

Heisenberg’s uncertainty principle digs deep into how our observation of a situation or phenomenon necessarily changes that phenomenon. This “Observer effect” anticipated the basic principles of quantum mechanics.

During my formation as an Architect (and this is a common experience in the profession) I used to think I would have to be able to control every aspect of the project, and that I would bear the ultimate responsibility for the design, calculation, implementation and performance of every single aspect of the project. Over a decade later, I have come to understand how that vision couldn’t be further from the truth. That original concept was enriched (and, truthfully, on some occasions devalued) by necessary collaboration. This resulted in an essential paradigm shift in my work dynamics and project approach, teaching me two valuable lessons:

-Every individual will have a vision and an agenda to fulfill, each working toward certain targets and goals that will eventually achieve the success of their own individual goals.

-And that I have no control over anyone else's vision.

So, after understanding these realities, I concluded that the most essential and effective contribution I could make to every project was not only to develop and defend my own independent vision of it, but to understand each individual’s vision; the strengths, weaknesses and potential of each one of those previously unidentified visions, and understand that a successful project is only the one that considers and works to achieve each angle.

The observation of the observers then became the formula, and the psychology behind its dynamics is what has helped me build strong relationships with clients, coworkers and collaborators.