This chapter rethinks the role of the architect, seeing them as someone embedded in the network of relationships that negotiates between different agencies, points of view and disciplines. It suggests foregrounding existing and possible relationships of mutual dependencies that have the potential to build caring alliances. In those reciprocal networks, the architect, often described as a facilitator, negotiator or mediator, becomes an active node that navigates between multiple stakeholders to create inclusive spaces. This attentive and proactive approach, theoretically framed by Meike Schalk, is unfolded in reflections on polyphonic educational processes instigated by Kasia Nawratek at the Manchester School of Architecture and in participatory practices of Copenhagen-based architectural office arki_lab run by Jeanette Frisk.