Good architecture and what it really means: Affirmative Architecture Brisbane

Architecture is an affirmative practice in many ways, one of which is designing for the betterment of the public and the occupants of a building.

This idea is the reigning theme at Affirmative Architecture, an annual event that celebrates the emergent trend amongst young architects and designers to re-engage with the ability of architecture to make life better.

The 2014 symposium, which will be held in Brisbane from Friday October 31 to Saturday November 1, draws together international and Australian architects who have demonstrated commitment to a social agenda and made significant contribution to the public good.

According to Affirmative Architecture_Brisbane, these practitioners “have a positive consideration of social engagement, careful analysis of existing conditions and a deliberate, often challenging architectural response.”

The event is curated as a series of interactive lectures and panel discussions, with the speakers to describe their work with a focus on built projects that contribute to social and public benefit.

Presenters will also share ideas on the role of the architect in society, and as a driver of cultural and developmental change. The critical question to be asked is, ‘what contribution architects and architecture can make in the public realm and how their design strategies, skills and research might make a positive difference to everyday life.’

Speakers for Affirmative Architecture_Brisbane include:

Diego Ramirz-Lovering – Monash University

Finn Pedersen – Iredale Pedersen Hook Architects

Stephen Neille – Pendal and Neille

Erik L’Heureux – Pencil Architects (Singapore)

Michael Rayner – Cox Architects

Flores and Prats Architects (Spain)

Michael Lavery – M3architecture

Rachel Neeson – Neeson Murcutt

Charles Wright – Charles Wright Architects

Virginia San Fratello – Rael San Fratello (USA)

Ingrid Richards – Richards and Spence

Lucina McLean – NMBW

OwenandVokesandPeters

Kevin Lowe – Small Projects (Malaysia)

Registration is $100 a day, or $50 a day for students. For more information, to register or view the 2014 program, please visit http://affirmativearchitecture.wordpress.com/

What: Affirmative Architecture

When: Friday October 31 to Saturday November 1

Where: Translational Research Institute Auditorium