Gaetano Palmese is recognised for his sustained and distinguished contribution to architecture through professional practice, leadership, education and long-standing service to the Australian Institute of Architects.
With more than 45 years of combined study and professional experience, Gaetano has built a career defined by breadth, rigour and commitment to architectural excellence. His professional practice spans Tasmania, mainland Australia and international contexts in London and Hong Kong, encompassing projects across a wide range of scales and typologies. As lead architect on numerous complex projects, he has demonstrated exceptional capability across all stages of architectural service, from master planning and concept design through to documentation and extensive contract administration.
Gaetano’s work reflects a deep understanding of the commercial realities of architectural practice, balancing design quality with sustainability, risk management and client expectations. Through his leadership of project teams and coordination of diverse stakeholders, he has established a strong reputation for delivering high-quality outcomes within demanding timeframes and budgets. His practice has received both state and national recognition, with Gaetano contributing to multiple Australian Institute of Architects award-winning projects.
A passionate advocate for the profession, Gaetano has been a continuous member of the Australian Institute of Architects since 1981 and an elected Tasmanian Chapter Councillor since 2015. He has served on numerous Tasmanian Chapter and National committees and working groups, including the Architecture Awards Working Group, the National Awards Review Committee and the National Honours Working Group.
Gaetano regularly represents the Institute at industry forums and consultative bodies, including as a Tasmanian Chapter representative to the TASCAT Consultative Forum, and contributes to professional standards through his role as an Architectural Practice Exam assessor with the Board of Architects of Tasmania.
Committed to education and mentorship, Gaetano served as a sessional academic and design tutor at the University of New South Wales for nearly a decade and continues to support emerging practitioners through mentoring programs and engagement with architecture students in Tasmania. His ongoing participation in conferences, exhibitions and industry forums reflects his enduring passion for architecture and lifelong learning.
Gaetano Palmese is elevated to Fellow of the Australian Institute of Architects in recognition of his service to the profession, his leadership and advocacy, and his contribution to architectural practice and culture in Australia.
Congratulations, Gaetano.
