David Brian, Industrial Sector Leader at dwp|suters, has an extensive background of industrial projects. From mining developments to laboratories, David has played a key role in leading and delivering industrial type developments throughout his career.

We speak to him about the challenges he faces every day on the job and the project he is most proud of. David even shares some wise words of advice that might benefit emerging architects.

Tell us about yourself.

I grew up in Brisbane, Queensland. From an early age I was interested in making and creating.

I completed a Bachelor of Built Environment and Bachelor of Architecture at Queensland University of Technology. I graduated in 2002 and became a registered architect in 2004.

In the early days I worked as an architect, developer and project manager at several architecture practices in South East Queensland and Central Queensland.

I started at dwp|suters in 2000.  In my role as Industrial Sector Leader I lead a national project team and the Industrial Sector for the practice. I’ve got a rich background working on industrial projects. I’ve lead and delivered a range of industrial developments including mining developments, laboratories, warehouses and logistics development.

We are seeing technological innovations in nanotechnology, digitisation and automation. At dwp|suters we’re embracing the current changes in the industry.  We pride ourselves on working with our clients to achieve modern industrial facilities that meet their vision, business goals and branding. We listen, collaborate and understand our client’s business, and from there we explore and create industrial building solutions.

Why architecture?

It’s creative, dynamic and challenging. I enjoy solving problems, and the best thing is that the result of the project becomes a built form. It’s a physical building, it’s not a theoretical result that concludes and then you move on (Although there is plenty of theoretical work involved in the design and construction process...)

What does your standard day involve?

I work on interesting projects with great clients and a talented team of people. I love that each day is full of activity and diversity.

Each work day includes a variety of client, consultant and internal team meetings, site visits to project construction sites, designing, mentoring younger team members and standard paperwork.

What tools and software did you use for Park Lake State School?

Revit.

Did you face any design challenges with the Park Lake project? 

We faced two key design challenges with the Park Lake State School project. Firstly, we were restricted by a standard Building the Education Revolution (BER) template. Our challenge was to convince the client that ‘bending the rules’ would achieve a far better interactive and custom design. Through the presentation of a revised design that responded to the needs of the client, school and community we were able to make changes. The result was a building that went above and beyond initial expectations. 

Secondly, we had a significant budget restraint. As the project was a BER procured building, the project budget was absolute. All design outcomes were successfully completed within the budget framework, with funds carefully spent on the important design features to ensure maximum results.

What is the favourite part of your job?

Leading others and seeing the built form take shape on site. I also enjoy the challenge of a complex brief and creating innovative solutions and integrating energy efficient initiatives into projects. 

What is the biggest challenge you face every day?

Juggling multiple project deadlines is a challenge that I rise to everyday. I bring a strong focus to project programming and methodology for project delivery to ensure each project has well defined timeframes and deliverables. Managing the process and seeing a project come to fruition is really rewarding.

Which project of yours are you most proud of, and why?

Park Lake State School of course! I’m proud of the industry recognition the project received and the talented team I worked with.

Park Lake State School was awarded the Colorbond Award for Steel Architecture at the 2012 QLD Australian Institute of Architects Awards and was shortlisted at the 2012 World Architecture Festival.

If you want to achieve great results, you need to surround yourself with great people. I worked with a fantastic team who helped deliver this award winning project. I’d like to say a big thank you to all of them, with special mention to Brent Ford.

Park Lake State School designed by dwp|suters. Images: Christopher Frederick Jones

Any advice for emerging architects or architecture students?

Stay enthusiastic and dedicated.

Ask lots of questions, never accept status quo as the best solution.

You will never stop learning or developing.

I find you need to find all the wrong solutions before the best one stares you in the face.