SJB Architects Director, Adam Haddow, has been awarded the 2009 Property Council of Australia Future Leader Award.

At just 35, Adam has already made his mark on the profession. Working on an array of projects from high density residential to retail design, Adam is also an active member of several professional bodies, including the Urban Design Taskforce and DARCH for the Australian Institute of Architects (AIA).

“I think that it is important for architects to engage with a broader community than just our profession,” Adam tells indesignlive. “An award such as this convinces me that it is worth the effort and energy engaging, discussing and collaborating.”

The award recognises the contribution of individuals under the age of 35 working in the property industry.

“Young Architects and designers have a vital role to play in the development of the built Australian landscape.  It is our role to give presence to the cultural nuances of our time,” he says. 

“This is often ephemeral and not easily quantified but it is vital in ensuring that our culture grows, matures and develops.  Ours is an opportunity to innovate and experiment.”

Adam has a strong belief in developing sensible, well-designed higher-density living in cities, curbing urban sprawl. “This needs to be a period of time where we think much more about ’us’ and less about ’me’. 

“We need to engage in built experimentation which delivers better quality public space, which is more connected, inclusive and sustainable.  Higher densities can deliver really fantastic outcomes and it is time that we give it a try.”

Currently working on a number of projects – from houses and hotels to office buildings and university masterplans – Adam is excited about continuing his work with the AIA and is looking forward to future opportunities.

“There is a really great culture of architecture starting to emerge from the cracks in Sydney, it’s refreshing, engaged, inclusive and really energetic.”

Adam also receives a grant of $10,000 that he will use to further research urban densification.

The Property Council of Australia
propertyoz.com.au

SJB Architects
sjb.com.au