27 June 2009
Acclaimed architects and design commentators reflect on the cities, eras, inventions and trends that have inspired them.
Ken Maher is a Sydney-based architect and landscape architect, and chairman of Hassell, Australia’s largest international multi-disciplinary design practice. He is professor of architecture at the University of NSW. In March he was awarded the Australian Institute of Architects 2009 Gold Medal.
The city that provides endless inspiration…
Rome, for its monuments, layering of time and people.
The precinct with the most notable examples of fine architecture...
The Grand Bazaar of Esfahan in Iran – a delicious spatial and sensory experience of a great covered market street linking the Friday Mosque with the public space of the Maidan.
The period that most chimes with you…
The Quattrocento, the cultural and artistic revolution of the 15th century that led to the Renaissance.
The holiday that rejuvenates creativity…
The cities of Rajasthan in India and, by contrast, the landscapes of the Australian wilderness.
Most innovative product design…
The continuing editions of Apple computers, including the iPod and iPhone – a communications and education revolution of outstanding design, lineage and adaptive reinvention.
Most useful design trend of the past decade…
Sustainable cities, buildings and products. We need these to ensure a future for our planet.
Wish you’d designed…
A Gothic cathedral – an amazing combination of space, light, structure, material and detail... to lift the spirit.
Source: Qantas The Australian Way July 2009