Every year Australian architects must report our Continuing Professional Development. This year “Understanding Country” is a mandatory topic. I’m an ignorant white fella when it comes to indigenous culture – I’m a product of a pretty ignorant schooling system – so it’s fantastic to see times are changing and my kids can sing the national anthem in the Dharawal language!
Now it’s time to gain a better understanding of Country and time to start designing with Country. This is but one example of where an Indigenous Voice to Parliament will help to reduce the disadvantage experienced by Indigenous Australians with regard to health, education, employment, housing and property rights. An architect called Paul Pholeros championed this more than anyone.
So, with a big hold of my breath, here’s my early understanding of Designing with Country:
Country and Connection
Country is more than just a physical place; it encompasses a spiritual and cultural connection to the land, waterways, and everything within them. It is a living entity that holds ancestral stories, customs, and knowledge systems. We need to think of ourselves as custodians of Country, responsible for its protection and preservation. A deep connection to the land influences our daily lives, rituals, and sense of identity. Designing with Country means respecting and acknowledging this connection and incorporating it into our practice.
Embedding Cultural Significance
Designing with Country requires an understanding of the cultural significance of specific sites and landscapes. Indigenous knowledge holders possess a wealth of information about their traditional lands, including burning practices, sacred sites, dreaming tracks, and significant natural features. We as architects can work in collaboration with these knowledge holders to identify and preserve these important places. This may involve careful site selection, orientation and the incorporation of traditional design elements that reflect the stories and histories of the local Indigenous nation.
Sustainability and Respecting the Environment
The original Australians have long been stewards of the land, maintaining a sustainable and harmonious relationship with their surroundings for many thousands of years. Their holistic approach to the environment can inform architectural design practices. By incorporating principles such as passive design, the use of renewable locally sourced natural materials, and the preservation of natural habitats, architects can create sustainable buildings that align with Indigenous values of environmental stewardship. This approach not only reduces the ecological footprint of architecture but also promotes a deeper connection with the natural world. The health and wellbeing of country is inextricably linked to our own collective health and wellbeing.
Cultural Expression and Inclusivity
Architectural designs should be inclusive and respectful of diverse cultural practices. Creating spaces that accommodate ceremonies, gatherings, and storytelling strengthens the cultural fabric of communities and fosters a sense of pride and belonging for all Australians alike.
I have a lot more to learn but it’s early days. Designing with Country is an invitation to architects to embrace Indigenous perspectives and create spaces that honour the deep connections between the land, culture, and people. By engaging with community, understanding their values, and respecting their heritage, architects can contribute to the revitalisation of culture while fostering sustainable and inclusive practices.
