Introducing the very first International Building Designer Day (IBDD). This has been highly anticipated and it has been very exciting to be part of the very first International Building Designer Day (IBDD) which was held on Wednesday 18th August. To mark this momentous occasion there have been lots of celebrations held worldwide. This year the theme chosen was “A new day, a new design”.
We also celebrated with a much-needed morning tea with all the trimmings. It was a great time to discuss our favourite designs and enjoy the very first of many annual celebrations for International Building Designer Day.
Image Left: Some of the Prime Design Launceston team celebrating International Building Designer Day (IBDD)
As part of this special occasion the team were asked to provide one of their favourite buildings or iconic designs found in Tasmania and supply a few key details about what is so special about their chosen design and why they love it. We have provided details from a few of our designers who have shared a building which inspires them.
Image Right: Some of the Prime Design Hobart team celebrating with lunch for International Building Designer Day (IBDD)
Hobart Celebrations
Our Hobart team also celebrated in style with an evening event held at The Den in Battery Point in Hobart. The International Building Designer Day Hobart Celebration attracted building designers and members of the Building Designers Association of Australia (BDAA), industry representatives and their colleagues. It was a great opportunity to meet fellow industry professionals and discuss design.
Alicia’s Favourite Design
The brief was a new day, a new design, however, you cannot appreciate new designs without first understanding older architecture. Alicia chose a controversial building to share as one of her favourites and many of you will know this building well.
One of Alicia’s Launceston favourites is Henty House. Alicia loves it because it is so divisive. People either love it or hate it because of how ‘brutal’ it appears. One of Alicia’s favourite aspects is all the detailing, every time she walks past it there is something new she notices. For example, the concrete columns have a wood grain texture which you only notice up close, from underneath the concrete cantilevers are impressive especially in contrast with the glass used. Over the past decade, an appeal from owners to reject the Heritage Listing status on the building has also caused even more controversy for Henty House which was built in the 1980’s.
Steve’s Favourite Design
One of Steve’s favourite’s is a public building located in Launceston. Customs House is a well-known building with plenty or architectural significance for Launceston. It was one of the first buildings Steve saw when moving to Tasmania to study architecture. The big columns at the front made an absolute impression on him. This stunning building also comes with a rich history having been built in the early 1800’s.
Amy’s Favourite Design
Amy loves the contemporary brick & steel frame details of an office fit out by Apogee Architects. A highlight is the contemporary take on an old building which still shows the history of the building with the exposed existing bricks which, provides a good contrast of different materials and shows a modern yet historic industrial style renovation.
Tarcia’s Favourite Design
Tarcia loves the design of a new residential build called Deviot Boathouse by My Build Collective. Tarcia specifically picked this design because of the use of earthy colours and materials, and the way the building brings the landscape (which does occasionally look tired on some days) to life. It overlooks the Tamar River and this design captures the view very well and provides a modern yet timeless boat shed aesthetic.
Drew’s Favourite Design
Drew loves the modern barn style home. The Farm House, Marrawah is the perfect representation of this style of home. The stunning home was designed by My Build Collective. Drew is a big fan of barn style houses with raked ceilings. Drew particularly likes the use of materials used for the interior as well to make things interesting.
Angela’s Favourite Design
Ange has great respect and appreciation for several homes created by Mike Cleaver at Clever Designs. Clever Designs is known for its unique design qualities whilst integrating sustainable design principles without compromising on aesthetics. Ange is particularly drawn to several designs, some if them award winning, these include Batman House, Bluestone Haven, Bayside Bows and Q-two House.
Tahleah’s Favourite Design
Tahleah’s favourite building is Captain Kelly’s Cottage, which is located on Tasmania’s Bruny Island and was designed by John Wardle Architects
This home extension project was created by John Wardle himself on his own property. It beautifully compliments and absolutely respects the existing heritage of the building and surrounding site of the old farmhouse. There is attention and consideration in every detail. The building has been allowed to tell its story and each new component is sympathetic to the old. Tahleah really enjoys the considered and respectful design.
Mitch’s Favourite Design
Mitch’s favourite design is another project also completed by John Wardle Architects. The new building is on the same property as the Captain Kelly’s Cottage and has been named the Shearers Quarters
Mitch finds this small dwelling to be incredibly thought-provoking and inspiring. Its form, its use of material and its harmonious setting within the landscape resonates with him and the values he strives to bring with him throughout his career. The simplicity of the dwelling is refined and its approach is well considered. It embodies what Mitch considers to be the modern vernacular of Australian architecture and he also finds it so peaceful and elegant. A stark contrast to what the average person is looking for these days.