Mar 22, 2022
I am always in awe of designers and architects who actually create tangible projects that stand the test of time and make communities come together – whether that be in the form of sky-high buildings, bold bridges, and public artwork that often harmonizes and reflects who lives and works in that neighborhood. Clever design can literally change lives and make us all happier and safer. Just picture the Eiffel Tower in France or the Brooklyn Bridge in New York or even the Hills Hoist clothing line, and you can quickly get what I mean!
Today I am speaking to Jayne Harrison. She is the Founding Director of JDH Architects and has been at the helm since its inception in 2003. Through her leadership, and pioneering vision, her business JDH has delivered an extensive portfolio of education and community projects and a hard-earned reputation as one of Australia’s most creative and dynamic architecture firms.
She also leads JDH Ed, a forum for Speakers, Thinkers, and Dreamers to come together in the exchange of knowledge and ideas. Specializing in educational architecture has allowed Jayne to combine her love of creativity and lifelong learning. With a unique holistic approach to engagement and in-depth understanding of pedagogical practice, Jayne’s thirst for knowledge has established the practice as leaders in educational architecture, planning, and design.
Believing in a better way to practice her profession, where people and the environment are the cornerstones of good design, she looks towards long-lasting solutions that support a responsible and resilient thriving future, the built environment, and the communities they serve.
As an engaging communicator, Jayne frequently speaks at educational conferences both in Australia and overseas. Harrison is also an avid supporter of gender equality in the architectural and construction space and regularly calls out the industry through speaking opportunities and seminars. She is also extremely passionate about supporting other female entrepreneurs and would love to see more women working alongside her in leadership roles.
In this episode you will hear:
- What does educational architecture entail?
- What is the biggest error people make when it comes to designing a statement building and even bringing a design to life?
- Is great, sustainable design subjective and of its era, or are there generally some tried and true ways to build structures that have form, function, and some generally agreeable design success in there?
- Women in architecture and construction are still today outnumbered – what solutions are there to attract more women to the field?
- Take away: What is your final takeaway message for us on The Politics of Design?
To connect with Jayne:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdhjayne/?originalSubdomain=au
W: https://www.jdharchitects.com.au/