Critters as Catalyst
Open House Melbourne’s Catalyst Podcast series looks at themes or issues that act as catalysts for creative design thinking and clever design solutions. Joining Open House Melbourne Executive Director and Chief Curator, Tania Davidge, each episode features a designer or creative in conversation with a client or field expert to unpack the topic through the lens of design and the built environment.
In this episode, we are looking at Critters as Catalysts for design and engineering. We are speaking with engineer Peter Standen from Partridge and architect Stuart Harrison from Harrison and White to discuss how engineering and design can help to take care of our more than human friends.
When we think about design and architecture, we typically think about designing for people but what does it take to design for animals? What does it take to get a frog in the mood for romance? How do you move pregnant elephants safely and securely from A to B? And how can design help to rehabilitate raptors?
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After working as an engineer across all areas of Partridge for 17 years, Peter was appointed as Managing Director in 2019. He has delivered a variety of projects, including public art, high-end bespoke residences, multi-residential buildings, commercial structures, expert witness reports, and remedial building solutions. With a keen interest in complex geometry and innovative structural designs, Peter excels in creating unique structures and art projects. He has a particular passion for collaborating with architects, designers, and artists to deliver adventurous, elegant, and unique solutions utilizing a first principles engineering approach enhanced by modern technology.
Stuart Harrison, Harrison and White (HAW)
Stuart is an architect and broadcaster. He runs Harrison and White architects in Melbourne and has worked extensively in public radio, television (Restoration Australia, ABC-TV), academia and has written several books on housing. Stuart is a passionate and well-known public advocate for the value of good design in shaping better suburbs, towns and cities.
The Catalyst Podcast series was recorded at The Push, Collingwood Yards. The Push is a youth music organisation and charity with the purpose of giving every young person the opportunity to participate and thrive in Australian music. Over three decades The Push has supported millions of young people with access to contemporary music programs and events.
Produced with the assistance of the Alastair Swayn Foundation. Find out more at alastairswaynfoundation.org
