Architects hail integrated design commission as visionary

The Australian Institute of Architects has hailed SA Premier Mike Rann’s announcement today of an Integrated Design Commission (IDC), and a government architect for SA, as visionary.

The Institute’s SA Chapter President Timothy Horton said: “Before today’s announcement, SA had lagged behind other states for too long, and had failed to recognise the place for design thinking in policy. SA has been the only Australian state without a government architect to provide strategic advice to the government of the day on the built environment”.

“2010 is a make-or-break year for SA”, said Mr Horton. “We’re poised on a number of fronts to see a transformation in our cities to address the transport and lifestyle needs of a growing population, and to manage the best use of resources within a changing climate. Designing the future for our urban areas is about building tomorrow’s heritage. A commission that supports this is a welcome Christmas present for all South Australians”

He said that at present, local and state government agencies work independently of each other. Individually, agencies set targets with outcomes that address their own charters. Having an authority that can reach across government to optimise these efforts in a co-ordinated way will produce more liveable, vibrant precincts that build community more effectively.

Mr Horton also applauded the timing of the announcement, saying that “linking the future of our cities to Proclamation Day celebrates our past and charts an exciting future; continuing the tradition of innovative city planning in South Australia that started with Colonel Light and continues to this day.”

While detail is keenly awaited, the Integrated Design Commission is expected to deliver outcomes that;

– re-position design as central to the planning and development sector

– sponsor constructive and intelligent debate on the future of city form in South Australia

– help to develop a shared community vision for design and development

– promote greater collaboration; between client agencies and design professionals, government and industry, state and local government

The Institute worked closely with Professor Laura Lee, a major contributor to the development of the IDC, during 2009 as a Thinker in Residence.

Professor Lee was recognised for her significant contribution with an Honorary Fellowship of the Australian Institute of Architects in July.

The Australian Institute of Architects is the peak body for the architectural profession, representing more than 9000 members across Australia and overseas. The Institute actively works to improve the quality of our built environment by promoting quality, responsible and sustainable design. Visit the Institute at architecture.com.au .
Australian Institute of Architects