Arup’s values are derived from the beliefs and convictions of our founder, the engineer and philosopher Ove Arup.
He believed that work was only valuable when it had something higher to strive for. We continue to embody that idea – that our work is truly profitable when it shapes a better world.
A commitment to the planet
Our people are working at the forefront of a more sustainable world, developing new approaches to the built and natural environments we all share. Our work is focused on producing safe, inclusive and resilient communities, infrastructure and cities. We recognise that sustainable development encompasses many different factors. So, our work also prioritises environmental regeneration, biodiversity, conservation of resources, stable economic growth and social value.
The Key Speech
On 9 July 1970 in Winchester, Sir Ove delivered ‘The Key Speech’ to all his partners from the various Arup practices. In this speech Ove set out the aims of our firm and, in his own distinctive and philosophical way, identified the principles by which they might be achieved.
‘The Key Speech’ is still required reading for each person who joins Arup and is valuable to anyone who wants to understand what continues to motivate us, both as individuals and as an organisation.
Our values
The aims and principles laid out by Sir Ove continue to guide the work the work that we do and how we collaborate with clients and communities. Learn more about our values:
1. Quality of work
As an independent, employee-led organisation, Arup has always focused on producing work that sets standards in the industry, gaining a reputation as a place for ambitious people to develop their skills and produce their best work.
“Our work should be interesting and rewarding. Only a job done well, as well as we can do it – and as well as it can be done – is that. We must therefore strive for quality in what we do, and never be satisfied with the second-rate.” Sir Ove Arup, The Key Speech
2. Total architecture
Part of the company’s DNA, ‘total architecture’ (sometimes ‘total design’) is shorthand for the highly collaborative, multidisciplinary ethos Arup brings to client challenges. Whatever the challenge, total architecture produces the most user-centred, thoughtful and socially valuable design solutions.
“’Total Architecture’ implies that all relevant design decisions have been considered together and have been integrated into a whole by a well organised team empowered to fix priorities.” Sir Ove Arup, The Key Speech
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