Mark Austin, Director at Austin Maynard Architects, has been named a Fellow of the Royal Australian Institute of Architects (FRAIA), recognising his incredible contributions to the field.
In a chat with Clémence Carayol for Architecture & Design, Austin shares his thoughts on his career, design inspirations, and what’s next for architecture in Australia.
Architecture & Design: Congratulations on being named a Fellow of the Royal Australian Institute of Architects! How does it feel to receive such a prestigious recognition from your peers?
Mark Austin: Thank you. It is very nice to be recognised by the Institute for my work, participation and contribution over the last 20 years. Personally, I have always approached each opportunity that has come to Austin Maynard Architects as a challenge that requires a new solution that benefits everyone involved and I think it is this mind-set that has brought my work to the attention of my peers.
Your firm, Austin Maynard Architects, is known for its innovative and sustainable designs. How has your approach to architecture evolved over the years?
The approach hasn’t altered to a large extent but the knowledge and experience to draw- on, to offer creative ideas that work, has definitely evolved over the years. There is now a back catalogue of successfully innovative ideas and approach to sustainability that we can draw upon as examples to give confidence to our clients that we can deliver what we aspire to create.
Sustainability is a core aspect of your work. What do you think are the most pressing challenges architects face today in creating environmentally responsible designs?
The challenges to create environmentally sustainable design come from a number of fronts that each require different approaches, patience and determination to navigate. The technology in this field is constantly improving, so research to understand what is available, how it works and how it can be incorporated in the building can be challenging. We always want the best possible solution for the budget available at the time and understanding what this is requires research. The confidence of the client is another challenge that sometimes requires a re-calibration of priorities and budget.
Can you tell us about a project that holds a special place in your heart and why it stands out among your portfolio?
It is very difficult to choose - too difficult. With each project there are a number of relationships that are developed over the years that it takes from start to completion so the people involved in the project are intrinsically linked with the finished product - and it is too hard to single out a project that I feel is Architecturally better than the others - I am proud of all of them.
The architecture industry is often shaped by trends. How do you balance staying innovative while ensuring your designs remain timeless?
Here at Austin Maynard Architects we don’t take much notice of trends. If anything if we see something becoming popular we consciously move in a different direction. We are always looking at inspiring projects, locally, nationally and internationally to see how others are approaching the same issues we are dealing with and to look at ways others creatively solve problems. These creative approaches to design resolution (the problems of which are timeless) are where we find inspiration.
What role do you believe architecture plays in fostering a sense of community, and how does this perspective influence your designs?
All buildings are experienced by the community that surrounds them. Sometimes it’s just something people walk past and look at, sometimes they use the building day-to-day. Either way there is a duty to provide Architecture that contributes to people’s lives. At Austin Maynard Architects we are always seeking out ways we can create a sense of community in our buildings, thinking through how people use space and how we can improve on that so that the interactions within the spaces around the building are memorable.
Mentorship and collaboration are key themes in architecture. As a newly appointed Fellow, how do you hope to inspire and guide the next generation of architects?
I try and provide mentoring advice and share my knowledge and experience as much as possible. I like to share ways that we have approached design in the past and to explain how a small idea or detail makes a big difference to the end use. To show what can be done if the time is taken to consider what the outcome could be.
What’s your perspective on the relationship between Australian architecture and the global architectural landscape? How do local influences shape your work?
There is some wonderful work being done in Australia by great Architects. Local climate, availability of materials and skills and building legislation are what, I think, makes Australian Architecture what it is. The first sketches of any Austin Maynard Architect project are proposals of how a building could relate to the unique site and unique climate. The design moves through the legislative hurdles and is further influenced by these, then procurement is critical to the quality of the end result. All of which are local influences.
What advice would you give to young architects who are just starting their journey in this ever-evolving field?
Find out what it is that you enjoy and what makes your approach to design individual to you. Defining these may take a long time but if you can discover them you can start to pursue a unique design aesthetic. You can be confident in applying this to all types of design, no matter where it evolves.
Looking forward, are there any emerging trends or technologies in architecture that excite you and that you’d like to explore further?
Emerging technologies in materials and servicing to improve the sustainability of buildings is where we are looking to at the moment. Low impact, carbon neutral and high recycled content products and materials that are resilient, practical and affordable are high on our list.
Image: Mark Austin/supplied
