We face many challenges in contemporary society—sustainability, housing affordability, ageing in place, increasing density requirements, connection to community—and architects have the potential to provide the answers.
Through effective application of the ‘nuts and bolts’ of architectural understanding, the designers of our future spaces can affect tangible, lasting positives for communities.
This is where The University of Notre Dame Australia’s Master of Architecture program comes in, where a new dedicated Design Studio plays host to a small cohort of innovative students.
“The Design Studio setting ensures that students learn in an interactive, innovative and peer-to-peer environment which we consider is essential to the concept of this new program,” School of Arts & Sciences Dean, Professor Sarah McGann says.
Master of Architecture student, Marco, loves the space. Smiling and gesturing to the models and drawings scattered across the table he explains why the program is so unique.
“You don’t feel like you’re part of a mass,” Marco says, referring to the tight-knit cohort he works with, “you’re treated with respect as an individual”.
This is a space where creativity flourishes unheeded, as the team of passionate industry leaders managing the program, guide the ‘community of practice’ approach to learning.
In addition to Professor McGann, who designed and initiated the program, Dr Lara Mackintosh, senior lecturer, researcher and registered architect, coordinates the program and is also the practice placement coordinator.
Applied researcher, educator and facilitator, Dr Robyn Creagh leads the program’s interdisciplinary, creative and applied research stream.
Award-winning architect, Dr Simon Pendal and Emerging Architect Award winner, Katherine Ashe join the team as co-leaders of the program’s design stream.
Master of Architecture student, Brandon sums up his own reasons for wanting to take part in this program by discussing the humanitarian values of the degree that resonated with him.
“Architecture has a stigma that only the rich can afford beautiful buildings, but it’s about bringing architecture to the people so everyone can share it,” Brandon says.
Notre Dame’s ethical approach to architecture helps you think about the things that really matter in this field.
