Brisbane architect Russell Hall is set to take on the role of Chapter President of the Australian Institute of Architects Queensland Chapter.
The Brisbane-based architect, with experience in residential retail, commercial and industrial design, shot to prominence for the distinctive dodecagon Carpenter Hall House on Eildon Hill in Wilston.
The home is listed on the Australian Institute of Architects’ Nationally Significant Architecture.
Mr Hall said it was an honour to take up the position to advocate for the architecture profession and the built environment of the state.
“I am delighted with the opportunity the position has, to confer with Governments on regulations and by-laws in the hope of a more climatically appropriate built environment for our state.
The anonymous nature of recent buildings from the arctic to the tropics enabled by energy consumption is an anathema to me. It eliminates place identity.”
“Well-designed homes and buildings use less energy, are healthier and are better for people. That’s why architecture is so important.”
The official handover was marked tonight at the annual President’s Honours Dinner, which also honoured the dedication and excellence of the local architecture profession.
Gold Coast-based Amy Degenhart has served as Chapter President over the last 12 months.
“It has been an honour to lead the Queensland Chapter of the Institute,” Ms Degenhart said.
“We have embraced the challenges of policy, especially for more social and affordable, and advocated for greater opportunities for architects to support effective design and place-making across communities.
“I am excited for Russell to take the reins and lead the Institute into 2025. Thank you to everyone from the Institute and our members for their support throughout my year as Chapter President.”
Tonight, six Queensland architects were inducted as Life Fellows of the Institute for their notable contribution and positive impact on the local built environment.
They were Deicke Richards’ directors Eloise Atkinson, John Deicke, and Peter Richards, Adjunct Professor of Design and Jim Gall Architects’ Jim Gall, former Peddle Thorp executive Ron Burgess, and James (Jim) Crawshaw who had a long association with architectural education.
Ms Degenhart said it was a privilege to champion the efforts of these industry legends, who had supported the profession through the work in design, construction, literature, education or public service.
“The vibrant Queensland architecture we see around us now has been built on the foundations forged by these professionals, who have shaped our cities and regions,” she said.
Tonight’s event will also elevate 15 members as Fellows of the Institute. They are: Alexandra (Ali) Farmer, Andrew Masters, Anna O’Gorman, Brendan Gaffney, Brett Hudson, Caroline Diesner, Gregort Adsett, Ivano Gestaldon, James Davidson, Karen Ognibene, Lea Lennon, Luke Pendergast, Paul Jones, Phil Smith, Richard Rizzalli and Shy Tay.
Queensland State Manager Anna Svensdotter said these individuals were among the most experienced practitioners in the architectural profession.
“Congratulations to all our Fellows and Life Fellows for these honours,” she said. “Their distinguished efforts and commitment have benefitted our profession and our communities.”
Former Queensland Department of Housing disability principal policy officer Margaret Ward AO will also be named as an Honorary Fellow for her service to the building industry.
The President’s Dinner also presented the $15,000 travel grant, the Philip Y Bisset Planning (architecture) Scholarship and the $20,000 Asia-Pacific study Dunbar Fellowship.
-ENDS-
Media contact: Rosanne Barrett on behalf of the Australian Institute of Architects | M 0425 420 024 | hello@barrettcomms.com.au
