French architects Anne Lacaton and Jean Philippe Vassal, of Lacaton and Vassal Architects, have been appointed to share the inaugural Garry and Susan Rothwell Chair in Architectural Design Leadership at the University of Sydney’s School of Architecture, Design and Planning.
Over a three-year period, Lacaton and Vassall who will deliver a program of design studios and public events on a their chosen topic: “dealing with contemporary urban conditions to explore optimal ways of living in the city.”
In a statement, Lacaton and Vassal said, “As the Rothwell co-chairs for the next three years, we propose to deal with contemporary urban conditions of living. We will explore optimal ways to live in the city while having an optimal use of ground and everything existing.
“One of our priorities is the quality of housing for all. The other is always to re-use and transform rather than destroy.”
The Parisian practice has completed a wide range of projects across France and further afield since it was founded in 1985. Arguably its most recognizable project is Palais de Tokyo, France’s largest contemporary art gallery, which involved the adaptation of an existing Art Deco building.
The three-year program is funded by a significant donation from architect Susan Rothwell and property developer Garry Rothwell in 2018. The program is intended to foster architectural innovation and experimentation and support early-career architects through the university’s design PhD program.
Robyn Dowling, head of school and dean of the architecture and design school, said, “With the appointment of Lacaton and Vassal, the school will further advance its ethos of socially relevant architecture and design, as well as its commitment to advancing the quality of architectural design in the Australian profession.”
Source: Architecture - architectureau
