The Narrative Of Place Methodolgy
The Story Archaeology:
8-Step Systematic Investigation
1. Physical Foundation Analysis
Understanding what the building wants to tell you - architectural styles, historic purposes, cultural meaning.
2. Cultural Context Mapping
Like a documentary filmmaker, I investigate local culture, economy, and community rhythms to understand what makes this place unique.
3. Competitive Landscape Analysis
Mapping existing players as potential collaborators rather than competition - finding authentic partnership opportunities.
4. Atmosphere & Detail Analysis
Like costume designers creating believable characters, I map every detail that builds the right atmosphere,
from how staff should look to what materials feel right. Every element has to serve the same story or it breaks the spell.
5. Values-Aligned Partnership Discovery
Like casting the right actor for a role, identifying local suppliers and partners whose values genuinely align with our narrative.
6. Spatial Analysis and Programming
Using architectural thinking to analyze how spaces can embody our narrative while serving practical needs.
7. Ecosystem Design & Tenant Mix Strategy
Designing tenant mixes where businesses strengthen each other - like creating a film cast where every character serves the story.
8. Creative Blueprint Delivery
All research synthesises into a complete framework - the narrative direction, visual strategy, and experience concept that becomes the development bible.
How We Work Together
Research-Led Partnership
I immerse myself in your location and community first. Deep cultural investigation before concept creation.
Collaborative Development
Your vision combined with systematic narrative discovery. Regular check-ins throughout the Story Archaeology phase.
Blueprint Delivery
Complete creative framework that guides every specialist who follows - from architects to operators.
Who I Work With
Property Developers
Creating distinctive concepts that command premium positioning and differentiate in competitive markets.
Hospitality Operators
Developing authentic narratives that build genuine community connection and sustainable competitive advantage.
Investment Partners
Strategic concept development for lifestyle hospitality ventures requiring authentic place-based positioning.
Project Outcomes
Cultural Research Foundation
Comprehensive understanding of your location's authentic narrative opportunities.
Narrative Strategy
Complete story framework including positioning, experience concepts, and cultural connection approach.
Creative Blueprint
Visual direction, spatial programming, and implementation guidance that protects narrative integrity throughout development.
The Result
A clear story that becomes the foundation for everything else - from design decisions to operational choices.