In an attempt to get a better understanding of what is happening in the real world, away from my computer, I was thrilled to participate in the Design Speaks Architecture Symposium : Reset, held at the Art Gallery of NSW in July.
https://designspeaks.com.au/events/2023/07/28/the-architecture-symposium-sydney-2023
Not only was it a great event but it was so inspiring to hear each of the speakers talking about the challenges they are facing, alongside the opportunities they see. Most agree that we are facing some very difficult conditions in the architecture industry, not least of which the rise in costs due to inflation and supply pressures which are forcing the cost of building up and influencing client decisions to cut back in whatever ways they can. While this sometimes results in design outcomes being compromised, the speakers also held a lot of hope and inspiring suggestions for how we might “reset" and approach our work in innovative new ways.
While all the speakers were great, a few that stayed with me were:
Caroline Robertson and Tim Gittos from Spacecraft Architects in Wellington presented a built work and a strong argument for co-op ownership that is not only beautiful and functional, but an amazing model for how a group of younger buyers can come together and create a lifestyle they want. I can certainly understand why the project won the NZIA Multi-Unit Housing Award in 2023. To learn more about the project visit: https://www.spacecraftarchitects.co.nz/Block-Party
Chris Major and David Welsh of Welsh and Major in Sydney presented a range of incredibly beautiful work looking at the ways they are helping their clients with amazing bespoke solutions that are adaptive and reusable that allow for sustainable use of spaces across the lifecycle of a building as families grow and change. While they work across a range of disciplines what struck me most was the attention to detail in materiality that they express in their designs, and how they spoke about how materiality in projects will need to transform as we move forward through these uncertain times and seek out more sustainable design solutions.
Kate Fitzgerald of New Resident and Whispering Smith in Fremantle represented her all female architecture practice and shared not only case studies of how reuse and renovation of great existing architecture is important, but how maximising and creating greater green space is necessary against the tidal wave of the generic McMansion urban sprawl that ignores it. What stayed with me the most was their approach to developing their own projects, reducing red tape and timelines by being their own client and bringing to market much needed architecturally designed solutions that people love and enjoy. I think how Kate presented their increased turnover and efficiency was incredibly inspiring and a good example of how to overcome a lot of the obstacles in our field and chasing the best outcomes.
While we are certainly facing some challenges it was such a great conference to be a part of as it helped refocus my thinking from concern to confidence. There are many ways we can adapt and rethink our processes to our changing world and its this kind of high level thinking that we all need to participate in. I am grateful I took the opportunity to get away from my desk and be amongst people who are innovative and inspiring. I look forward to hearing more solutions.