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Marina Tabassum is a world-renowned Bangladesh architect and educator. Her architecture studio, Marina Tabassum Architects (MTA), was established in 2005 and has received numerous accolades, including two Aga Khan Awards for Architecture, the first for the Bait Ur Rouf Mosque and the second for a housing solution called Khudi Bari. Marina and her studio also designed the 2025 Serpentine Pavilion. Her projects have significant social impact and are well known for the use of local natural materials and craftsmanship, which creates architecture that is both poetic and purposeful. We sat down with Marina during her recent visit to Australia for Melbourne School of Design's 2026 Dean’s Lecture Series, to speak about the changing perception of what makes something architecture.   Further reading Marina Tabassum’s kinetic 2025 Serpentine Pavilion opens https://architectureau.com/articles/Marina-Tabassums-kinetic-2025-Serpentine-Pavilion-opens/ Architect of 2025 Serpentine Pavilion revealed https://architectureau.com/articles/architect-of-2025-Serpentine-pavilion-revealed/ Architecture for Empowerment https://architectureau.com/calendar/exhibitions/architecture-for-empowerment/

Recently, the exhibition Lived In was announced as Australia’s contribution to the 2027 Venice Architecture Biennale. Building on the Housing Atlas for Australia research project, the exhibition is a collaboration between creative directors Kerstin Thompson of Kerstin Thompson Architects, and Maryam Gusheh, Lee-Anne Khor and Louise Wright of Monash Urban Lab. Lived In will draw on more than a century of Australian multi-residential housing to tell a national story of how we live, through drawings, data, photography, film and residents’ own experiences. In this episode, ArchitectureAu editor Lucia Amies speaks with two of the creative directors Kerstin Thompson and Lee-Anne Khor to learn about the vision behind Lived In and find out what visitors can expect to see in Venice next year.   Further reading Creative directors for Australia’s 2027 Venice Biennale exhibition announced https://architectureau.com/articles/Creative-directors-for-Australias-2027-Venice-Biennale-exhibition-announced/

Rob Champion is the founder of TARN, a landscape practice that focuses on experimental projects. Alongside his residential work, Rob is currently co-leading the design of the National Sculpture Garden at the National Gallery in Canberra, an ambitious project that is revitalising and expanding an important landscape. In this episode, Emily Wong, editor of Landscape Australia, speaks with Rob about the opportunities of experimentation and imperfection, and how doing less can be more impactful in small-scale landscape design.   Further reading Local hero: Robert Champion https://landscapeaustralia.com/articles/local-hero-robert-champion/ Meet the jury for the Landscape Australia Awards https://landscapeaustralia.com/articles/meet-the-jury-2026-landscape-australia-awards/ Testing grounds: Gardens as laboratories https://landscapeaustralia.com/articles/testing-grounds-gardens-as-laboratories/

David Welsh and Chris Major founded their practice, Welsh and Major, more than twenty years ago. Since then, they have refined and embraced an adaptive reuse design method, delivering thoughtful and enduring architecture across a diverse range of project types. In this episode, they reflect on the evolution of adaptive reuse in Australia and the value of designing with the unexpected.   Further reading Pyrmont Community Centre by Welsh and Major https://architectureau.com/articles/pyrmont-community-centre-by-welsh-and-major/ Greybox by Welsh and Major https://architectureau.com/articles/Greybox-by-Welsh-and-Major/ Comedor by Welsh and Major https://architectureau.com/articles/comedor-by-welsh-and-major/ The Imperial by Welsh and Major https://architectureau.com/articles/imperial-welsh-and-major/ Gathering character: Seagrass House https://architectureau.com/articles/seagrass-house/ Bohemian legacy: The Hat Factory https://architectureau.com/articles/the-hat-factory/ Breathing room: Darling Lane https://architectureau.com/articles/darling-lane/ First House: Hordern Street https://architectureau.com/articles/hordern-first-house-welshandmajor/ Telescopic vision: Annandale House https://architectureau.com/articles/annandale-house-1/ A house with tiles on it https://architectureau.com/articles/a-house-with-tiles-on-it/ Fitzroy Terrace https://architectureau.com/articles/fitzroy-terrace/

Since establishing his practice in 2007, Anthony Gill has crafted residential projects that challenge assumptions about contemporary housing. His work often focuses on refining spatial arrangements, resulting in homes that feel generous and functional without relying on excess. In this episode, Alexa Kempton, editor of Houses magazine, speaks with Anthony about how residential architecture that resists resale-driven logic can lead to unconventional, understated, and delightful ways of living.   Further reading Four houses of Anthony Gill Architects https://architectureau.com/articles/houses-of-anthony-gill-architects/ Randwick House by Anthony Gill Architects https://architectureau.com/articles/Randwick-House-by-Anthony-Gill-Architects/ Blue Mountains House by Anthony Gill Architects https://architectureau.com/articles/blue-mountains-house/ An outdoor challenge: Waterloo House https://architectureau.com/articles/waterloo-house/ Paddington House https://architectureau.com/articles/paddington-house/ Surry Hills House https://architectureau.com/articles/surry-hills-house-by-anthony-gill-architects/ Potts Point Apartment https://architectureau.com/articles/potts-point-apartment/

Lee Hillam is a seasoned design critic. Her experience as a principal of Dunn Hillam, as a reviewer for national publications such as Architecture Australia, and as chair of the State Design Review Panel for the Government Architect NSW has sharpened her eye for what makes a successful architectural outcome. In this episode, Lee unpacks how we justify a project's merit and explores the tension between subjective and objective evaluation in design.   Further reading Lee Hillam on how to improve the competition system https://architectureau.com/articles/lee-hillam-on-how-to-improve-the-competition-system/ Green Square Public School and Community Spaces by BVN https://architectureau.com/articles/green-square-public-school-and-community-spaces-by-bvn/ Murrin Bridge Preschool Community Hub by CD Studio, Supercontext, GFA2, Fake Industries and University of Technology Sydney https://architectureau.com/articles/murrin-bridge-preschool-community-hub/ The Pavilion Performing Arts Centre Sutherland https://architectureau.com/articles/the-pavilion-performing-arts-centre-sutherland/ Music, desert and sky: Cobar Sound Chapel https://architectureau.com/articles/cobar-sound-chapel/ Architecture as storytelling: Quay Quarter Lanes https://architectureau.com/articles/quay-quarter-lanes/ An act of civic pride: Gunyama Park Aquatic and Recreation Centre https://architectureau.com/articles/gunyama-park-aquatic-and-recreation-centre/ Third-gen city-making: 44A Foveaux Street https://architectureau.com/articles/44a-foveaux-street/ The architecture of interdependence: Escarpment House https://architectureau.com/articles/escarpment-house/ Making a community: Arkadia https://architectureau.com/articles/arkadia/ Tall ambitions: Short Lane https://architectureau.com/articles/short-lane/ Cowper Street Housing https://architectureau.com/articles/cowper-street-housing/ Long hours: Go hard or go home! https://architectureau.com/articles/long-hours-go-hard-or-go-home/

Anthony Clarke is an architect, scholar, writer, and founder of BLOXAS – a practice that focuses on the relationship between architecture and care. In this episode, Lucia Amies, editor of ArchitectureAU, speaks with Anthony about the challenges and opportunities of regulation when it comes to designing inclusive spaces that support users' complex needs.   Further Reading Residential design through a lens of care https://architectureau.com/articles/residential-design-through-the-lens-of-care/ Justine Clark on whether inclusive design should move from aspiration to obligation https://architectureau.com/articles/justine-clark-on-whether-inclusive-design-should-move-from-aspiration-to-obligation/ Allen Kong on whether inclusive design should move from aspiration to obligation https://architectureau.com/articles/allen-kong-on-whether-inclusive-design-should-move-from-aspiration-to-obligation/ Pragya Gupta on whether inclusive design should move from aspiration to obligation https://architectureau.com/articles/pragya-gupta-on-whether-inclusive-design-should-move-from-aspiration-to-obligation/ Angelo Candalepas on whether inclusive design should move from aspiration to obligation https://architectureau.com/articles/angelo-candalepas-on-whether-inclusive-design-should-move-from-aspiration-to-obligation/

Emma Williamson has held leadership roles across both architectural practice and public policy. From her time as a partner at The Fulcrum Agency to her current role as Government Architect for Western Australia, she has been driven to improve the quality of the built environment and the culture of the profession. In this episode, Emma shares her approach to leadership and discusses the behaviours and cultures that lead to designers creating their best work.   Further Reading Women in architecture: Leadership https://architectureau.com/articles/women-in-architecture-leadership/ Emma Williamson on how to broadcast the value of architecture to a wider audience https://architectureau.com/articles/emma-williamson-on-how-to-broadcast-the-value-of-architecture-to-a-wider-audience/ Valuing architectural work: The human effects https://architectureau.com/articles/valuing-architectural-work-the-human-effects/ Diversity as a disruptor in construction https://architectureau.com/articles/diversity-as-a-disruptor-in-construction/ Architecture’s untapped opportunities to maximize advantage https://architectureau.com/articles/architectures-untapped-opportunities-to-maximize-advantage/ Carey Lyon: “Everything is a public building” https://architectureau.com/articles/interview-with-carey-lyon/ School of Design and the Built Environment, Curtin University https://architectureau.com/articles/school-of-design-and-the-built-environment-curtin-university/ Values-driven design: ANZ Breathe https://architectureau.com/articles/anz-breathe/ Narrative and legacy: Bilya Marlee https://architectureau.com/articles/bilya-marlee/ ‘Genuinely inclusive’: Yagan Square https://architectureau.com/articles/yagan-square-lyons/ A space to exhale: Tom Fisher House https://architectureau.com/articles/a-space-to-exhale/

William Smart is the founder and creative director of Smart Design Studio, a practice that has delivered a wide range of projects, from large-scale masterplans and cultural buildings to private houses and product design. In conversation with Architecture Media’s editorial director Katelin Butler, William reflects on how the drive towards scalability and standardisation in architecture is redefining creativity, craft and customisation.   Further Reading Parametric pursuit: Stokes 14  https://architectureau.com/articles/stokes-14/ 2017 National Architecture Awards: Emil Sodersten Award for Interior Architecture https://architectureau.com/articles/2017-National-Architecture-Awards-Emil-Sodersten-Award-for-Interior-Architecture/ Howatson Company by Those Architects and Smart Design Studio https://architectureau.com/articles/howatson-company-by-those-architects-and-smart-design-studio/ Self expression: Smart Design Studio office https://architectureau.com/articles/smart-design-studio-office/ Recalling bygone grandeur: Rail Operations Centre https://architectureau.com/articles/rail-operations-centre/ First House: 632 Bourke https://architectureau.com/articles/first-house-632-bourke/ Celebrating curves: Regent https://architectureau.com/articles/celebrating-curves-regent/ Evocative and engaging: Town Hall House https://architectureau.com/articles/town-hall-house/ Independent integration: Crown 515 https://architectureau.com/articles/crown-515/ Elemental and abstract: Sydney 385 https://architectureau.com/articles/sydney-385/ Nip and tuck: Orama https://architectureau.com/articles/orama/ Optique https://architectureau.com/articles/optique/

Izzie White is an architectural graduate, a leading voice in architectural advocacy on social media and currently acting National Communications Manager at Architectus. Through her TikTok and Instagram channels, where she has built a combined following of almost 50,000 people, she shares videos about architecture that cuts through industry jargon and explains the values and outcomes of design in clear, engaging terms. In recognition of this work, at the 2026 Australian Institute of Architecture’s Victorian Chapter Awards, Izzie received the Advocacy Award in the Bates Smart Media Award category. In this episode, Izzie shares how the profession can play a more active role in educating the public on why architecture matters.   Further Reading 2026 Victorian Architecture Awards https://architectureau.com/articles/2026-victorian-architecture-awards/

Australian architect Gregory Burgess AM is renowned for his culturally and environmentally responsive approach to architecture. For more than five decades, his work has been shaped by presence, patience, and a pioneering spirit of co-design. Greg has been honoured with numerous national and international awards, including the 2004 Australian Institute of Architects Gold Medal, and appointment as a Member of the Order of Australia. Despite his acclaim, he modestly refrains from the spotlight. In this episode, Gregory Burgess of Gregory Burgess Architects reflects on the role and responsibilities of an architect, particularly when working with First Nations communities, as well as the values that have guided his remarkable career.  Further reading:  Gold medallist  https://architectureau.com/articles/gold-medallist/ 2025 National Award for Enduring Architecture https://architectureau.com/articles/2025-National-Award-for-Enduring-Architecture/ 2023 National Award for Enduring Architecture https://architectureau.com/articles/2023-National-Award-for-Enduring-Architecture/ Sidney Myer Music Bowl https://architectureau.com/articles/sidney-myer-music-bowl/

There is a long-held notion that architecture is a luxury only available to the few. However, there are many designers finding ways to reclaim architecture’s role in everyday housing. Clare established her practice Clare Cousins Architects in 2005. Since then, her firm has designed and delivered a mix of social housing typologies, as well as cultural, private residential and workplace projects. The studio has found a balance between projects that sustain architectural practice financially and the projects that address broader social needs. In today’s conversation, Clare speaks about how architects can play a meaningful role in shaping an inclusive built environment designed for the 99%.   Further Reading Shiel Street North Melbourne, Community Housing Project by Clare Cousins Architects https://architectureau.com/articles/shiel-street-north-melbourne-community-housing-project-by-clare-cousins-architects/ The Architecture Symposium: Designing for the 99% https://designspeaks.com.au/events/2026/09/04/the-architecture-symposium-melbourne Courtyard House by Clare Cousins Architects https://architectureau.com/articles/Courtyard-House-by-Clare-Cousins-Architects/ Aesop Collins Street by Clare Cousins Architects https://architectureau.com/articles/aesop-collins-street-by-clare-cousins-architects/ Aesop Collins Street by Clare Cousins Architects https://architectureau.com/articles/nightingale-village/

Mark Simpson and Damien Mulvihill, established their multi-disciplinary practice Design Office in 2008. The studio works across a wide range of project scales and typologies, with designs that seek to challenge and explore the qualities that determine a space for hospitality, a space for work or a space for living. In today’s episode, InteriorsAu editor Cassie Hansen, speaks with Mark and Damien about the unique influence of hospitality design in the workplace.   Further reading: The Commons Richmond by Design Office https://architectureau.com/articles/the-commons-richmond-by-designoffice/ 2025 Australian Interior Design Awards: Retail Design https://architectureau.com/articles/2025-australian-interior-design-awards-retail-design/ Mark Simpson’s advice to the next generation of designers and architects https://architectureau.com/articles/mark-simpsons-advice-to-the-next-generation-of-designers-and-architects/ Design Office’s new Melbourne Headquarters https://architectureau.com/articles/designoffices-new-melbourne-headquarters/ Intimate volume: Higher Ground https://architectureau.com/articles/higher-ground/ 2017 Australian Interior Design Awards: Hospitality Design https://architectureau.com/articles/2017-australian-interior-design-awards-hospitality-design/ My Catwalk https://architectureau.com/articles/my-catwalk/ Nishi display suite interior https://architectureau.com/articles/nishi-display-suite-by-designoffice/

The design and construction industry generates some of the largest amounts of waste in Australia. Approximately 26.8 megatons were recorded during the 2022–2023 financial year. In response to this excess, Amy Seo and Shahar Cohen created Second Edition to explore new ways of working with materials that would otherwise end up in landfill. By designing their own projects and collaborating with other architects, Amy and Shahar seek to educate and advocate for deconstruction as an alternative to demolition. In today’s conversation, Amy speaks on whether or not there is appetite for this approach on projects across Australia.   Further Reading: Emerging profile: Second Edition https://architectureau.com/articles/emerging-profile-second-edition/  One to watch: Second Edition https://architectureau.com/articles/one-to-watch-second-edition/  Rochester Street Office by Allied Office, Akin Atelier and Second Edition https://architectureau.com/articles/rochester-street-office-by-allied-office-akin-atelier-and-second-edition/  Radical acts of repair: Second Edition https://architectureau.com/articles/second-edition-1/

Neil Durbach, Camilla Block and David Jaggers are the recipients of the Australian Institute of Architects 2026 Gold Medal – Australia’s highest architectural honour. Their Sydney-based practice Durbach Block Jaggers Architects is defined by a collaborative, exploratory approach to design that embraces complexity, contradiction and exchange. In celebration of their Gold Medal win, editorial director at Architecture Media Katelin Butler speaks with Neil Durbach, Camilla Block and David Jaggers about collaboration, creative process and the dynamics behind their practice. Further reading: National Prizes Gold Medal https://architectureau.com/articles/2026-national-prizes-gold-medal/ Beyond the unexpected https://architectureau.com/articles/beyond-the-unexpected/ Phoenix Central Park  https://architectureau.com/articles/phoenix-central-park/ UTS Science and Health Building  https://architectureau.com/articles/uts-science-and-health-building/ Newcastle East End Stage 1 https://architectureau.com/articles/newcastle_east_end_stage_one/ Durbach Block Jaggers' hourglass-shaped Omnia tower completed https://architectureau.com/articles/durbach-block-jaggers-hourglass-shaped-omnia-tower-completed/ National Architecture Awards Robin Boyd Award for Residential Architecture (Houses New) https://architectureau.com/articles/2017-national-architecture-awards-robin-boyd-award-for-residential-architecture-houses-new/ Heritage revitalisation of Sydney's Powerhouse Museum Ultimo granted approval https://architectureau.com/articles/heritage-revitalisation-of-Sydneys-powerhouse-museum-ultimo-granted-approval/ Durbach Block Jaggers designs Sydney pencil tower https://architectureau.com/articles/durbach-block-jaggers-designs-sydney-pencil-tower/