Supporting the motion
Following a degree in sociology and psychology at Bristol University and research in cognitive
psychology, Alex studied at the Architectural Association in London. He joined Foster Associates in
1977 and worked on the HongKong & Shanghai Bank from 1981 to 1985 with responsibility for special
structures. In 1986 (with the late Ian Davidson) he formed Lifschutz Davidson Sandilands.
His work comprises a wide variety of award winning projects including supermarkets, a green power
station, the Royal Victoria Dock Bridge, offices and residential buildings. For over 20 years he has
worked on London’s South Bank for, among others, clients Coin Street Community Builders. Such
projects include working with local groups and organisations to regenerate the area, drawing up
master plans and completing the Palm Housing Coop at Broadwall, Oxo Tower Wharf, the Spine
Route and the Hungerford footbridges. Most recently, he worked on the Doon Street community
swimming and sports centre with its residential tower.
Alex is interested in the ability of design to create buildings and cities that respond to change and
that are easily adapted by those who use them. He has developed construction and furniture
systems that empower users to easily alter buildings both in the initial construction process and
throughout their life.
Alex is President of the Architectural Association and chair of Body and Soul, a charity devoted to
children and teenagers living with HIV. He is married and has two children.
