Architecture Foundation Australia presents Iconic Australian Houses at the National Archives of Australia, an exhibition curated by Karen McCartney which explores the most significant Australian houses of the last 60 years and illustrates the ways in which great design can enrich your lifestyle.
The exhibition delves into the design and construction of these important houses, as well as the intriguing stories of the architects and inhabitants, looking beyond just the physical structures.
It is a fascinating illustration of the emergence of Australia’s distinct and unique approach to home design, featuring vivid photography, sketches, 3D models and filmed interviews.
McCartney drew material from her own best-selling architecture books. She says, the pioneering architects of the ’50s, ’60s and ’70s took international design influences and adapted them in ways that suited the Australian landscape and climate.
Renowned architect, Enrico Taglietti’s Dingle House in Hughes has been one of the 30 houses selected around the country to feature in the exhibition.
The house was designed by the Milan-trained architect in the 1960s and was selected for its innovative design that was unique to Canberra. This iconic home and the 29 others selected, epitomise the best architectural talent and design thinking that Australia has produced over the last six decades.
The exhibition also features the works of some remarkable names in architecture, including Harry Seidler, Neville Gruzman, Glenn Murcutt and Ken Woolley.
After touring around Australia since 2015, Canberra is lucky enough to have this exhibition before it continues its Australian tour into late 2018.
“Many of the architects represented in this exhibition, including Taglietti, designed houses and also public and government buildings for the National Capital,” Assistant Director-General of the National Archives, Louise Doyle, says.
“We are pleased to have the opportunity to host the exhibition here in Canberra.”
