Regina the architect
I got into architecture because I wanted to make the world more beautiful, inclusive and fun. I think our surroundings shape much of our thoughts, attitudes and aspirations I see that as a powerful way to contribute to the world.
Over my career I have been drawn to civic projects and smaller homes. Seems like two opposites in terms of scale but in fact both typologies let me draw on my strongest skills and my loves. This is great relationships, teamwork, solving complex problems, pushing new ideas and creating spaces for the people.
I believe all people should have access to good design, regardless of budget and I will work hard with you to try get you most value in your project.
Regina the artist
I draw and I paint. I study the figure, buildings and urban spaces.
My art practice helps keep my creativity free, reminding me to include fun in the pragmatics of a architectural design process. I realised a lot of other creatives can sometimes get bogged down in regulations and standards and technical details and feel like they have lost touch with the creative spark they pursued their career for. So I started the workshops for corporate groups, initially focused on other architects and interior designers. Over time these workshops opened up to other groups and began travelling to regional areas as well.
Values
Joy
Life is short and precious and we should enjoy as many moments of it as we can! I think our urban environment and the spaces we occupy have the power to inspire joy and I try to find those opportunities in design. I also try to create positive relationships with those I work with so we can have joy in the process and transfer some of it into the projects we are involved with.
Efficiency
Being efficient saves us time (and money) for things that matter. Let me quickly clarify something though - efficiency doesn’t necessarily mean FASTER, rather getting to the outcome in the most effective way and reaping as much value as possible. It usually means spending some time at the beginning of a project to identify opportunities and plan workflows to avoid rework or fixing mistakes later.
Doing things right
Acting with integrity, setting things up properly, managing risks, taking accountability, full transparency, avoiding rework and miscommunication and focusing on what matters. The list is long and ambitious but we strive to do things right. I find it easier to do things right from the beginning, cross checking before moving on to the next stage. It means we know what what we are working on is realistic and we save ourselves a lot of headaches later. It is also easier to keep our relationship and trust strong.
Beauty
I got into architecture because I believe the built environment affects us and I wanted to contribute positively to that affect. Good design elevates the human experience and potential and bad design diminishes it. Hospitals are finally utilising design to create healing environments promote faster recovery and it is finally being recognised that oppressive spaces (lack of light, clutter) can contribute to depression and anxiety. Beauty is subjective but I strive for it by focusing on what joys I can find to share and integrate them into the function of a place.