A Reflection –

Morgan’s Lookout

We see great benefit in looking back over past work to remind ourselves of how we’ve developed concepts, implemented ideas and approached (or challenged) different briefs.

A project we often find ourselves reflecting on was the development of a concept strategy for an access stairway upgrade at the popular Morgan’s Lookout, located in the small town of Walla Walla, NSW.

The project brief sought replacement of a longstanding stair and lookout with a new design that would comply with today's accessibility requirements.​​

Our intention was to rehabilitate the natural beauty of the site and acknowledge both Indigenous and early settler occupation. Our design response therefor proposed an enduring structure to sit adjacent to, rather than on, the striking granite boulders. 

​We collaborated with Focus Engineering in Corowa and Indigenous artist Lorraine Connelly-Northey (Wiradjuri) on the concept, and although unsuccessful, it has served as a much-used template with which our studio approaches similar projects.

AIA’s First Nations Advisory Working Group and Cultural Reference Panel

We were so pleased to learn about the addition of a ‘Statement of Recognition’ into the Australian Institute of Architecture’s Constitution in late July.

The statement was developed by the First Nations Advisory Working Group and Cultural Reference Panel, a group recently established by the AIA in acknowledgment of their professional commitment to engage and act in meaningful relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

The working group will scope and develop recommendations that will support and encourage valuable outcomes between First Nations peoples and the AIA, as well as providing guidance on the inclusion of First Nations peoples in Architectural education and the Institute’s programs and governance.

The formation of this working group is critical in building community awareness of our industry’s professional commitment to implementing the inclusion of First Nations principles in our practice, and we look forward to learning more about their recommendations as they are established.

Read more about the advisory group panel members below.

In case you missed it...

Last week Design Director Phillip conducted ‘Isolation Talk No.18’, part of a series created by The Architects Bookshop which focusses on the excellence of Australian Architecture.

The concept was developed in April during the COVID-19 lockdown, with the intention of bringing people together and encouraging social connectivity during the period of isolation.

Phillip discusses the studio, our projects and how he works - if you didn't see it and would like to view, click on the below. We hope you enjoy!