Creating Places from spaces:Architecture is about the fusion of meaning and space. In order to develop a vision, one must first understand a client’s ideals & goals. This often requires researching ‘best practice’ built examples, user needs and even architectural theory. Once a vision is agreed, only then can one respond with an appropriate design/s. Assess/determine client brief (offering better or alternative solutions for consideration).I believe in thoroughly questioning & testing assumptions. Nothing should be so dear it cannot be dispensed with, except perhaps ethics. Architects & Buildings must have integrity, as buildings are a reflection of our culture. Good design requires no regulatory oversight, as it far exceeds their minimal prescription.How do you work with the other consultants, trades & builders on the project?The building procurement process hasn’t had a lot going for it recently. The oversight was stripped away by the ACCC & the liasse faire economy. D&C now stands for dollars & cents - a reflection of what has been most important for many in the construction industry during the last 3 decades. Something I don’t do. Something NSW is legislating against. Building is not buying a product; it’s undertaking a process, as is design. For me, that process involves many experts who all deserve to be heard whether they’re on the tools or not. The people I work with know I expect the best from them. I will not tolerate uncoordinated documents any less than shirking on site because ‘it’s not my job’. Open books may be an answer to regain the public’s trust.So much more than beautifying buildings: I am an admirer of Japanese aesthetic philosophies & firmly believe that ‘beauty’ can be found within most things. Great details exhibit beauty. One of the designer’s tasks is to expose ‘beauty’. Not in the vulgar sense but in the explorative. The design process should be used to define & exhibit ‘the beautiful’ rather than forging beauty out of a façade. I dislike façadism©, it’s akin to decoration. Has its place occasionally but often a waste of money & disingenuous, especially when mimicking ‘real’ things. How we live should be our decoration, not something that can be messed up.What areas do you work in?I have significant experience in the Hospitality & Tourism, Institutional & Residential (incl. multi-unit/high-rise) sectors. I have also taken a part in Civic & Civil, Office & Industrial projects during my career.