9 July 2008
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| Foundation Prof. Shane Murray, Head of Architecture Hon. Justin Madden, Minister for Planning Prof. John Redmond, Dean, Faculty of Art and Design Nader Tehrani, International Guest, principle Office dA, Boston Prof. Richard Larkins AO. |
Monash University's Architecture program was officially launched and its new architecture studios officially opened on Tuesday evening, 8 July, 2008.
Victoria's Planning Minister Justin Madden opened the facilities, based at the Caulfield campus, before a crowd of Melbourne's architectural community and visiting internationally acclaimed architects Nader Tehrani, Hailim Su and Bjarke Ingels.
Monash University's new Architecture program sits within the Faculty of Art and Design. Led by Faculty Dean Professor John Redmond, the vision for the program was one that would place significant emphasis on creativity and innovation, and be unique for placing architecture in an art and design context.
This vision, now being implemented by Professor Shane Murray, the Foundation Professor and Head of Architecture, is already coming to fruition with an outstanding group of first year students, an exceptional staff of architectural practitioners and an innovative research program focusing on contemporary housing and issues to do with affordability, sustainbility and materiality.
The inspirational re-fit of the building which houses the new architecture program was designed by West Simpson Haatzellis (WHS) Architects, and was cleverly developed through an exploration of the various modes through which architecture is taught. The resulting innovative spaces comprise flexible design studios, academic and research offices, administration and meeting rooms, a CAD/CAM laboratory and a series of informal areas for students and staff.
Professor Murray said Monash Architecture looks forward to an exciting future with so much already in place.
"We have already created an exceptional environment for our students and staff. This new course promises to produce outstanding graduates of the highest calibre, distinguished by their proficiency with architectural design not only as an agent for achieving inspirational building but also as a contributor to our social and environmental sustainability."
"In addition, we will make a significant contribution to the knowledge base of architecture through a rigourous and relevant research program." Professor Murray said.
For more information or to arrange an interview with Head of Architecture and Foundation Professor Shane Murray or Dean of the Faculty of Art and Design, Professor John Redmond, please contact Samantha Blair, Media and Communication + 61 3 9903 4841 or + 61 439 013 951. | 
