
LIZ WESTGARTH
Hassell Studio
SAY IT LOUD - Naarm Melbourne Exhibitor​
MELBOURNE/AUSTRALIA Designer
Who or what inspires you professionally?
Amanda Levete and Jan Kaplicky from Future Systems; uncompromising in their design vision, Norman Foster; lead the way in environmental design and Dr Daniele Hromek; elevating my understanding of Country and been a strong indigenous voice for women.
LIZ WESTGARTH
Bio:
Liz is a highly-respected architect whom is based in our Sydney studio. As a principal and board member of Hassell, she drives her passion for design rigour, always challenging preconceived ideas that impact the way we live and work. During an extensive international career – including with Foster + Partners – she has led and designed high-profile projects and integrated precincts spanning the workplace, retail, residential and culture sectors. She is an active mentor and role model.
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How did you first learn about architecture and when did you decide that built environment profession was an area of interest for you?
I have enjoyed art since I was a little girl, particularly drawing and painting. I first learnt about architecture in high school, when we did a term learning about modern architecture as part of our art studies.
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What do you do?
It’s difficult to describe what I do! It’s very diverse and with a different focus every day! I work in collaboration with teams to design places, work with clients to define their aspiration and think strategically about the future of the business.
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What excites you in the work you do? Who or what inspires you professionally?
I enjoy the diversity of work and the unique challenges that every project presents. I love imagining (and designing) for a new sustainable future, so I can leave the world a better place than I found it!
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Who or what inspires you professionally? What is your proudest professional accomplishment or achievement?
Amanda Levete and Jan Kaplicky from Future Systems; uncompromising in their design vision, Norman Foster; lead the way in environmental design and Dr Daniele Hromek; elevating my understanding of Country and been a strong indigenous voice for women.
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What is your proudest professional accomplishment or achievement?
I am extremely proud to be a Principal at Hassell doing what I enjoy for a business that is very supportive of women in design.
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Featured Project Name:
The First Building
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Featured Project Location:
Bradfield, Western Parkland City, Sydney
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Featured Project Completion Date:
2023
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Role in Featured Project:
Principal Architect
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Featured Project Description:
Designed in collaboration with Dinjama, First Building brings to life country, culture and community in a high-tech shared platform for manufacturing and research. Designed with whole-of-life sustainability and flexibility in mind, the building operates as a kit of parts able to be easily disassembled or adapted. A sculptural timber pavilion-style building, its curves are reflective of the water and fluidity of the surrounding landscape and the area’s Indigenous heritage as a place for women.