Architectural Governance: Quality Control in the Design and Construction of Public Sector Projects

Abstract

This research article aims to analyze the impact of the absence of architectural governance mechanisms on the quality of design and construction in public sector projects and to propose governance-based approaches for improving quality control in architectural works. The study applies five key principles of good governance—transparency, accountability, participation, efficiency, and auditability—integrated with two core architectural frameworks: Architectural Quality Assurance (AQA), which emphasizes the systematic control of design quality, and Building Performance Evaluation (BPE), which focuses on post-occupancy assessment of building performance based on actual user experience. In particular, the research highlights the importance of implementing Post-Occupancy Evaluation (POE) as a feedback mechanism for long-term quality assurance.

A qualitative research methodology was employed, involving documentary research, analysis of official documents and investigative reports, case studies of both successful and problematic public construction projects, and semi-structured interviews with architects and government project supervisors. The results indicate that public projects incorporating architectural governance practices—such as external design review panels, pre-bid design disclosure, and POE—achieve higher levels of design quality, user satisfaction, and project accountability compared to projects without such mechanisms.

Key policy recommendations include assigning a formal role to professional councils in reviewing Terms of Reference (TOR) and architectural design drafts; requiring POE reports as a prerequisite for the final disbursement of construction budgets; and establishing a centralized governmental unit for architectural quality assurance. These measures aim to foster long-term sustainability, transparency, and public trust in the design and implementation of public sector buildings.