Three diverse international architects have been announced as participants in the Australian Institute of Architects’ Droga Architect in Residence 2015/16 program.

Above: A youth engagement project by Liz Ogbu

Following on from the successful visit in 2015 by NORD Architects, a jury chaired by Brit Andresen has named the next candidates to undertake the unique 12-week opportunity.

UK emerging architect Nick Wood, Finnish stalwart Juhani Pallasmaa and Californian champion of change Liz Ogbu were selected for their broad experience and engaging program proposals.

Now in its second year, the Australian Institute of Architects residency program invites international architects to participate in a three-month program encouraging the exploration of new approaches, the exchange of ideas, international collaboration and cross-fertilisation.

Nick Wood, Founder and Director of How About Studio, commenced the Residency in September, and is focusing on the role of the awning in inner urban environments. How About Studio is a London based design practice working internationally on projects ranging from event-based installations, to furniture and permanent buildings.

Nick Wood’s Bench With a View

February 2016 will see Finnish architect Juhani Pallasmaa begin his Residency, which will feature a series of public lectures. Pallasmaa has practised architecture for over fifty years, establishing his own office in 1983. In addition to architectural design, he has been active in urban, exhibition, product and graphic design.

Liz Ogbu is a designer, urbanist, social innovator and founder of Studio O. Her Residency will take place in the Spring of 2016. She is a Harvard graduate whose expertise is in disruptive innovation in challenged urban environments. She has worked extensively with communities in need to leverage the power of design to deliver social impact, from designing shelters for immigrant day labourers in the US to a water and health social enterprise for low-income Kenyans.

For more information about the residency visit wp.architecture.com.au/foundation/residency-program/

Australian Institute of Architects
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