Episodios

  • A Deeper View: A Conversation with Architect, Chris Moller

    A Deeper View: A Conversation with Architect, Chris Moller
    Jun 12 2024

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    Discover the secrets behind the harmonious marriage of digital and analog design with acclaimed architect and Grand Designs New Zealand host, Chris Moller. Chris shares his unique perspective on the vital importance of tactile, sensory engagement in the creative process, reflecting on how traditional tools like pencils and legos can foster innovation. He also revisits a historical chat between Kevin Kelly and Brian Eno, uncovering the essence of good architecture through the lens of Marshall McLuhan's theories.

    Unlock the power of juxtaposition and shock tactics in the world of design, as we draw parallels between media, art, and architecture. Chris discusses how master architects like Bjarke Ingels and Rem Koolhaas use these techniques to provoke new ways of thinking, and we contemplate the calming effect of physical creation in a digitized world. This episode also takes a deep dive into extreme sports, revealing the parallels between the intense focus required in sports like whitewater kayaking and the craft of architectural design.

    Connect with the cosmos and nature through architecture with Chris's insights on projects like the Mount Pleasant Community Centre and the Porirua Community Market, Kai Tahi. We explore how learning from natural forms and historical principles can lead to more sustainable and efficient designs. The episode wraps up with an inspiring highlight of the Ruamahanga River conservation project, showcasing the powerful impact of grassroots activism and community involvement in environmental restoration. Join us for a journey that bridges the past, present, and future of design, offering a rich tapestry of insights and inspiration.

    Episode artwork by Anna Briggs

    0:00 - Digital vs Analog in Design
    10:43 - Juxtaposition and Shock in Design
    17:34 - Craft, Creation, and Architecture
    35:13 - Connecting Architecture to Nature and Cosmos
    46:50 - Architectural Design and Cosmic Inspiration
    1:03:20 - Revisiting Ancient Architecture Principles
    1:13:15 - Ruamahanga River Conservation Project

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    1 h y 16 m
  • A Lens on Life and Design: A Conversation with Photographer, Simon Devitt

    A Lens on Life and Design: A Conversation with Photographer, Simon Devitt
    May 27 2024

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    Have you ever found yourself mesmerized by a childhood slideshow, each frame a stepping stone on the path to your future? Simon Devitt, a renowned New Zealand photographer, joins us to share a laugh and trace the serendipitous journey from those familial beginnings to the pinnacle of architectural photography. With his camera, Simon captures more than structures; he documents the intersection of human experience and design, reminding us that every picture holds a story waiting to be told.

    This episode is like a well-curated gallery walk, guiding you through the delicate art of 'slow photography' and the profound influence of fleeting moments. We debate the gifts and curses of digital technology in the creative world, all the while drawing lessons from tennis courts and kitchen organization. Simon's vivid recollections, from selling cameras to working with Sir Ian Athfield, illustrate how those who walk with us, even briefly, can redirect the course of our creative rivers.

    Join us as Simon imparts the wisdom gained from teaching photography to architecture students—lessons about presence, observation, and the surprising creativity borne of stillness. And just when the path seems too solemn, Simon lightens the trek with his spirited views on balancing online professionalism with the joy of sharing a good meme. We wrap up with a poignant reminder of the power behind capturing the essence of architecture, knowing full well the conversation is far from over, as we navigate our own storied landscapes.

    0:12 - The Influence of Family on Photography
    12:48 - The Art of Slow Photography
    27:58 - Influential Moments in Creative Pursuits
    34:50 - Exploring Architecture Through Photography
    50:03 - Reflection, Photography, and Teaching
    57:43 - Creativity, Boredom, and Memes
    1:08:57 - Architectural Photography Importance

    https://simondevitt.com/

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    1 h y 10 m
  • Building Tomorrow: Why High Performance Architecture Is Important

    Building Tomorrow: Why High Performance Architecture Is Important
    May 13 2024

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    Prepare to have your notions of sustainability and high-performance architecture transformed as we take you through a deep exploration of how our industry is evolving. We're dissecting the very fabric of what makes our buildings stand the test of time, from the innovative repurposing of building materials to the critical need for buildings that outlive the 50-year mark, we promise an episode that redefines what you thought you knew about sustainable construction.

    This conversation is a goldmine for anyone looking to align their building practices with the future – a future where affordability and sustainability are not at odds. We uncover the intricate balance between high-performance homes and financial feasibility, dismantling the myth that sustainable is synonymous with expensive. We share insights into solar energy's cost versus benefits, the impact of Thomas Heatherwick's Humanize campaign, and the pioneering recycling efforts setting Queenstown apart. It's a candid look at the industry's current challenges and the groundbreaking solutions that are paving the way for a more conscious approach to architecture.

    We leave you with a call to action. The insights garnered from this discussion reinforce the urgent need for collaboration among architects, developers, and financial institutions. With the clock ticking towards 2025's mandatory reporting of whole-life embodied carbon, we invite you to join the conversation and contribute to a movement that is reshaping our homes, cities, and ultimately, our planet. Tune in for a deep dive into the world of high-performance architecture.

    0:12 - High Performance Architecture Discussion
    13:41 - Materials Sustainability in Construction Industry
    21:08 - Importance of Sustainable Building Practices
    30:15 - Energy Systems & Sustainable Building Metrics
    42:32 - Affordable, Sustainable Construction Solutions
    57:03 - Sustainability Summit Networking and Insights

    Key Links:
    https://nzgbc.org.nz/
    https://passivehouse.com/
    https://archipro.co.nz/article/what-is-a-high-performance-home-archipro
    https://www.branz.co.nz/sustainable-building/up-spec/
    https://www.fletcherliving.co.nz/about-us/sustainability/lowco/
    https://www.aretearchitects.co.nz/environments/siptris-the-elle

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    59 m
  • Merging Green With Grey: The Importance of Landscape Architecture

    Merging Green With Grey: The Importance of Landscape Architecture
    May 1 2024

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    Delve deep into the world of landscape architecture, with our guest, Charlotte Warren, whose roots are deeply entwined with the land. Charlotte, a seasoned landscape architect from Studio Pacific Architecture, shares her journey and opens our eyes to the profound relationship between the natural and built environment. As we traverse this terrain, we delve into the importance of green spaces, the role of landscape architects in city resilience, and how urban design impacts our daily lives. Charlotte's international experiences, including her work in cities like Auckland, London, and Wellington, provide a unique lens through which we examine the integration of ecological and social considerations from the inception of architectural projects.

    Venture into the heart of urban living where landscapes meet lifestyle, discussing the delicate balance needed for high-density environments to accommodate play spaces vital for children and family life. We shed light on the historical urban planning models that have shaped our cities and consider the legacy of landscape architecture in future-proofing our urban spaces. The conversation spans from the practical to the personal, and looks at how we can navigate the potential for landscape architecture to enhance residential experiences, challenging the conventional separation of built and natural environments.

    As we wrap up this insightful discussion, we ponder the aesthetic and functional dimensions of landscape design. We weigh the merits of native against exotic plants, the cultural significance of historical indigenous cultivation, and the critical importance of soil health. By elevating the conversation beyond mere aesthetics, Charlotte demonstrates the powerful influence landscape architecture has on our cultural and environmental heritage. Join us this week and discover the greenie within you.

    0:12 - Introduction
    8:04 - Urban Design and Landscape Architects
    13:18 - Importance of Landscape Architecture Integration
    19:33 - Landscapes Role In Densification
    24:56 - Value Engineering in Landscape Architecture
    34:52 - Species - what should we plant?
    47:52 - Design Approach of Landscape Architects

    Key links from this episode:
    WCC Regional Planting Guide - https://www.gw.govt.nz/assets/Documents/2021/10/Wellington-Regional-Native-Plant-Guide-Revised-Edition-2010-Web.pdf

    Kiss the Ground - https://kissthegroundmovie.com/

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    57 m
  • From Classroom to Studio: The Evolution of Design Process

    From Classroom to Studio: The Evolution of Design Process
    Apr 15 2024

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    Remember those all-nighters during university, where concepts and craft merged into design projects that felt like extensions of ourselves? We take you back to those formative days, where our design philosophies were born amidst the rigors of conceptual training and critical thinking. Join us as we contrast the nostalgia of academia with the realities of professional practice, navigating the push and pull between creative freedom and real-world constraints.

    Step into our studio as we dissect the evolution of our design process, from groundbreaking theses to the profound influence of architectural talks on our professional development. We shed light on how our craft, much like pottery, demands commitment to iterative processes and adaptability. The episode is a toast to the hands-on experiments that sculpt our architectural skills, and a reflection on whether our most instinctual designs remain our purest expressions, or if we truly refine our craft through experience.

    Have your thoughts ever danced around the subjectivity of architecture? We scrutinize the creative legacies of luminaries like Frank Gehry, Peter Zumthor, and Anne Holtrop, and consider how architectural firms can spur innovation beyond waiting for the perfect brief. We wrap up on an uplifting note from Gerard's recent chair exhibition, urging fellow creatives to leap over the barriers they've built around their work. So, grab your favorite sketchbook and join us for a conversation that's as much about the beauty of design as it is about the journey that shapes it.

    0:12 - Design Education and Practice Perspectives

    11:25 - Evolution of Design Process

    16:36 - Iterative Design Process in Architecture

    22:56 - Design Intuition

    39:23 - Architectural Design and Process Influences

    45:00 - Future Architectural Exploration for Clients

    51:27 - Design Development Through Physical Modeling

    57:05 - Encouraging Creativity and Taking Action


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    59 m
  • Its Awards Season!: The Validation of Awards in Creative Fields

    Its Awards Season!: The Validation of Awards in Creative Fields
    Mar 31 2024

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    Ever wondered if the glittering world of architectural awards is more than just a trophy on the shelf? Join us as we unpack the tangible benefits of prestigious accolades like the NZIA awards for architects and their projects. From the thrill of the awards night to the strategic marketing advantages of award submissions, we delve into the real-world implications of being recognised by peers.

    As past award-winners, and newly shortlisted ones, we dissect the financial commitment and long-term gains of entering the competitive architectural arena. As we reminisce over the shortlisted projects and the vibrant architectural scene in New Zealand, we venture beyond the accolade itself, discussing the potential for awards to elevate public appreciation of architecture. We even toss around the idea of a People's Choice Award, musing over how social media could democratise the recognition process. Biggest Cantilever anyone?

    Tune in for a candid blend of industry insights, hearty laughs, and a passionate exchange of ideas on the awards scene in architecture and design.

    Episode Chapters:
    0:13
    Discussing NZIA Awards and Entries
    7:29
    Value of Awards in Architecture
    17:44
    Architectural Awards and Public Engagement
    26:16
    Discussion on Architecture Awards
    33:10
    Recognition and Validation in Architecture
    42:54
    Discussion on Alternative Awards


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    55 m
  • Designing for Density: Crafting Sustainable and Community-Focused Urban Spaces

    Designing for Density: Crafting Sustainable and Community-Focused Urban Spaces
    Mar 14 2024

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    Embark on an enlightening expedition into the intricate world of urban densification with guest, Guy Marriage, an acclaimed architect, senior lecturer and esteemed author. Our conversation peels back the curtain on the transformation of cities, focusing on sustainability and the efficient use of space. From dissecting the concept of a two-kilometer high skyscraper to addressing New Zealand's quintessential quarter-acre mindset, we explore the pressing need for neighborhoods that embrace higher density living. As Guy shares his wealth of knowledge, we uncover the interplay between urban development, ethical design, and the creation of community-centric environments.

    Unpacking the evolution of apartment living, we revisit built examples and address the shift towards more compact living spaces. Delving into the role of building regulations, we discuss the critical importance of sound insulation in creating harmonious living conditions and how a focus on mere code compliance is a missed opportunity for superior quality construction. Drawing from both personal experiences and international standards, we reflect on the essence of quality in urban development, underscoring the importance of raising the bar for living spaces regardless of geographic location.

    Our insightful journey through urban planning culminates with a candid discussion on the design challenges faced by architects in New Zealand. Emphasizing the role of unique design over cookie-cutter architecture, we touch upon the nuances of creating spaces that consider both natural and social environments. Additionally, we tackle the seldom-discussed topic of toxicity in building materials, revealing the hidden environmental and health costs behind modern construction. This episode provides a rare glimpse into the future of urban landscapes, where conscientious design paves the way for sustainable, life-enhancing communities.

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    1 h y 3 m
  • The Art of Architectural Marketing: Strategies for the Creative Field

    The Art of Architectural Marketing: Strategies for the Creative Field
    Mar 3 2024

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    This episode is a treasure trove of strategies for marking your territory in the architectural marketing jungle. We dissect the art of pre-emptive outreach, discuss the power of media presence, and weigh the impact of social media on brand recognition. Amidst the debate on publication types and their reach, we also spotlight the generational embrace of digital platforms that are reshaping how architects carve their signature in the industry.

    Our conversation in this episode traverses the patience needed to 'lay seeds' for future recognition, the value of high-quality photography, and the smart deployment of social media strategies. Listen in as we discuss the delicate balance between showcasing polished work and harnessing the ephemeral nature of stories, and share our experiences in navigating the challenges posed by a portfolio limited to conceptual pieces.

    We wrap up with an exploration of the benefits that strategic partnerships bring, delving into how they can inform on market trends and lead to client referrals. We also tackle the marketing of high-performance, sustainable architecture and the avenues to attract eco-conscious clients. Join us on this candid journey, and be prepared to be inspired, informed, and ready to elevate your marketing prowess.

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    56 m