RMIT: Celebrated architectural firm and RMIT alumni focus of new book
The second publication in the EDITIONS: Australian Architecture Monographs series was officially launched at a special event during Sydney Design Week.
Published by Thames & Hudson in partnership with RMIT, Neeson Murcutt Neille: Setting Architecture details the compelling body of work by renowned architectural firm Neeson Murcutt Neille.
The beautifully designed monograph draws on residential, civic and education projects to celebrate the practice’s long commitment to creating joyful spaces that contribute to private and public life.
Held at the Australian Museum, the launch event featured a panel discussion as well as presentations by RMIT alumni and architects Rachel Neeson and Stephen Neille, and authors Anna Johnson and Richard Black.
Johnson and Black spoke about the ideas behind their evocative essay in the book and the tapestry of themes that uncover the practice’s intentions. This included the crafting of architecture around stories of family and community alongside their explorations of space, colour and detail. A book signing concluded the evening.
Dean of Architecture and Urban Design Martyn Hook said the launch was a celebration not just of the book but of Neeson Murcutt Neille’s significant contribution to Australian life, cities and landscape.
“Neeson Murcutt Neille represent a new generation of practice in Sydney that builds on a rich history of architecture which embraces landscape but augments it with humanity and specific advocacy for public engagement. The monograph frames this beautifully crafted, responsive body of work in an international context and seeks to situate their ongoing role in making spaces for people.
“Launching the book at the Australian Museum was an obvious choice, especially with such a fine example of Neeson Murcutt Neille’s work greeting visitors at the Crystal Hall entrance. The audience of clients, collaborators and students really enjoyed the intimate setting and the broad conversation.
“With each new publication in the EDITIONS series, we build on RMIT’s commitment to cultural advocacy for Australian architecture and its contribution to the design of our unique public realm.”
The EDITIONS: Australian Architecture Monographs series recognises the work of Australia’s most exciting architectural practices, urban designers and landscape architects, and is deeply grounded by RMIT talent.
Written by RMIT academics, designed by internationally celebrated book maker Stuart Geddes from RMIT School of Design and edited by Dr Fleur Watson, RMIT Alumni and Honorary Research fellow with the RMIT School of Art. Collectively they reinforce RMIT’s core strengths in design and architecture and demonstrate the University’s close relationship with practice and community.
Neeson Murcutt Neille: Setting Architecture is the second in the ongoing series, following the 2021 publication of Kerstin Thompson Architects: Encompassing People & Place.