Charrette Studio WebBlog

What is a Charrette?

The word "charrette" means cart or chariot in French, and was used to describe the cart that was wheeled through Paris to pick up the senior projects of students at the `Ecole des Beau Arts. It came to mean “hectic work required to meet a deadline”.

Charrettes are used today by planners, designers and developers as intensive, deadline-oriented work sessions. Charrettes frequently last for several days, are solution oriented and collaborative and involve a cross section of community stakeholders who have an interest in a specific development project.

Why a Charrette?

A charrette is both problem and opportunity oriented. Those most affected by the project are asked to participate in generating solutions or ideas. The diverse backgrounds and perspectives of the participants contribute to a well-rounded discussion of the problem, opportunities, interrelationships and impacts. Because charrettes take place within a limited amount of time, participants are challenged to rapidly, openly, and honestly examine the issues at hand and work towards a solution that is acceptable to all.

A Charrette:

• A charrette clearly defines the project
  
• A charrette clarifies a developer's understanding of possible impacts
  
• A charrette Identifies both problems and opportunities
  
• A charrette expands the degree of stakeholder involvement
  
• A charrette reduces conflicts early in the development process and resolves impasses
  
• A charrette combines well with other planning/design techniques
  
• A charrette produces viable solutions and visible results

Why Charrette Studio?

Charrette Studio is a planning and design firm experienced in assisting the creation and implementation of private, public and private/public real estate projects. The Charrette Studio team offers a wide array of services, including:

• Project conceptualization
  
• PreForma™ analysis
  
• Regulatory review and permitting
  
• Project program development
  
• Architectural/design services
  
• Pro Forma analysis
  
• Implementation strategies
  
• Public/private partnership development

The Charrette Studio approach to successful project development involves the following key steps:


1.) Understaning the opportunity
2.) Bringing the appropriate expertise to the table
3.) Engaging key stakeholders
4.) Encouraging creative thinking
5.) Working fast

For more information about a charrette for your project:Please see the Charrette Studio