On 9 January 2026, Ahti was pleased to attend an architectural talkshow featuring Adi Purnomo, Principal Architect at MamoDesign, as part of our continued engagement with the professional design community.
The session focused on an often underrepresented topic in architecture: failure as an integral part of the design and building process.
Failure as a Reality in Built Work
During the discussion, Pak Adi highlighted that even highly respected and globally recognised architectural works are not exempt from technical challenges. He referenced Fallingwater by Frank Lloyd Wright — a project celebrated for its concept and aesthetic legacy, yet one that has faced well-documented structural and maintenance issues due to its extreme site conditions.
This example served as an important reminder that architectural success is not defined solely by visual impact or recognition, but also by how challenges are identified, addressed, and learned from over time.
Lessons from Contemporary Practice
Drawing from his own professional experience, Pak Adi spoke candidly about the realities of delivering complex designs — particularly projects involving flat roofs and extensive greenery. While these elements are widely sought after in contemporary architecture, they can introduce risks such as leakage or hairline cracking if not carefully detailed, executed, and maintained.
Rather than positioning these outcomes as failures to be avoided at all costs, the discussion reframed them as critical learning moments that contribute to improved detailing, material selection, and coordination in future projects.
A Professional Mindset for Long-Term Growth
The central takeaway from the talk was clear: architects should not be afraid of their work being perceived as imperfect. In practice, experimentation, technical challenges, and post-construction learning are essential drivers of progress within the industry.
For developers, consultants, and suppliers, this perspective reinforces the importance of open dialogue, realistic expectations, and long-term collaboration — particularly when delivering projects that push design, material, or environmental boundaries.
Engaging with the Architectural Community
At Ahti, we value opportunities to participate in industry conversations that go beyond finished visuals and instead address the realities of building performance, specification decisions, and lifecycle considerations.
We appreciate the invitation to take part in this dialogue and look forward to continuing our engagement with architects and industry partners who believe that strong design is built through process, learning, and professional honesty.
