The Garry and Susan Rothwell Chair gift consists of a Rothwell Chair appointment, research appointments and associated program of activities to elevate the standard of architectural and urbanism practice.
鈥淭he Garry and Susan Rothwell Chair Program is an exciting opportunity for the School to further our international academic standing, build strong relationships with renowned international architectural studios and to contribute to a unique Sydney education.
With the appointment of Lacaton & Vassal, the School will further advance its ethos of socially relevant architecture and design, as well as its commitment to advancing the quality of architectural design in the Australian profession.
Jean Philippe Vassal and Anne Lacaton
鈥淲e are thrilled with the news that Lacaton & Vassal will be the inaugural Rothwell Chair. We听are aware of their wonderful work and believe that this is an absolutely marvellous opportunity for both the students, academics and our colleagues,鈥 said Garry and Susan听Rothwell.
are committed educators who will work with students, researchers and听practitioners on their听topic:听dealing with contemporary urban conditions听to explore optimal ways of听living in the city. Over the next three years their visits, design studios and public lectures will form a major part of the听.
The Chair initiative aims to; provide leadership in architectural and urban design innovation; foster research and research training; enhance the learning experience; and facilitate connections with the architectural profession both locally and internationally.
"A shared vision of the main issues and challenges of architecture and urban planning for the future and the high level of standard of education of the University of Sydney that came up through our preliminary discussions convinced us to take up the Rothwell appointment,鈥 said Lacaton & Vassal.
Multiple award-winner,听听based in Paris, is an international practice working on public buildings, housing and urban planning. The studio鈥檚 projects - including the Palais de Tokyo, Paris, the Architecture school in Nantes - are based on a principle of generosity and economy, with the aim of changing the standard and a strong commitment to sustainability and social impact.
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