2024 Gold Medal Tour with Philip Thalis – SA

The Institute’s 2024 Gold Medallist Philip Thalis cares deeply about people and place. Philip has a clear passion for urban environments and what makes them work at a macro and architectural project scale.  This is backed up by a commitment to research, which enriches his work, provides resources for others, and a strong platform for public engagement. 

Philip is no stranger to speaking about the issues that concern him. It was refreshing to hear from an architect who is committed to public participation and discourse; an articulate proponent for inclusive, sustainable city making whose propositions are backed by a strong evidence base.  We need architects to lead these conversations and provide alternative perspectives if we are to realise positive change and address the issues resulting from rapid urbanisation. 

Projects presented, both theoretical and built, explored equity, climate change, cultural memory, and public space, affirming Philip’s opening statement that the city is both the precondition and the objective of any work of architecture. Philip was frank about the challenges and disappointments inherent in architecture, particularly when working on large scale projects in the public realm, but clearly retains a sense of positivity and the ability to focus on the successes that Hill Thalis have achieved.

Philip’s presentation left me with a profound sense of hope and optimism for the profession.  It also left me eagerly anticipating the inaugural ArchitectureAu Asks, to be held in Adelaide on 8 November.  A panel of eight architects shortlisted in the National Awards will respond to a proposition posited by Philip. I am confident that it will result in a thought-provoking discussion regarding the reciprocal relationship between architecture and the city and how this influences the quality of urban life.