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Moddex attends the Australian Architecture Conference

04 Dec 2023 by Moddex

Earlier this year, Moddex announced their new national partnership with the esteemed Australian Institute of Architects, with a drive to bridge communication between the construction and architecture industry. Stepping into the deep end of the world of architecture, Moddex had the pleasure of sponsoring the ‘Moddex Welcome Function’, thus opening the 2023 Australian Architecture Conference, held in Canberra.

Moddex Welcome Function

The team in attendance arrived at the Australian Museum early to paint the room orange with Moddex flair, even adding to the museum with a mini Moddex exhibition along the red carpet on entry to the event. Architects from across Australia were in attendance to join in on a night of reconnecting, networking and laughter. It was truly an event to remember.

Conference Day One: Master Classes – Practice? What Are We Practicing For?

Coffee was on Alspec for the first day of the Conference Master Classes, with the lineup full of fantastic panelists. Moddex’s own Elle Dickson, Head of Marketing, had the opportunity to facilitate two master classes over the two-day conference, the first of which being ‘Practice? What are we practicing for?’. The panelists included Rachael Bernstone of Sounds Like Design, Amelia Lee of Live Life Build, Rebecca Caldwell of Maytree Studios, and 2020 National Emerging Architect Award winner, Sarah Lenbar of Cooee Architecture. Four people who are shaping architecture by Facing Forward – a panel of do-ors, action takers, and perhaps you might say, disrupters.

Moddex attends the Australian Architecture Conference

There was a collective view that architects are not currently valued in today’s world. Architects often wear multiple hats, whilst also often left to fix design mistakes made builders, all whilst being paid less. Also, that perhaps architects are not confident in charging fees or offering a pricing model and structure to their clients, and communicating this. It has always been the outlook that architects shouldn’t market or ‘sell’ their skills.

Two imperative components of practice, delivery and impact, is communication and marketing. The reality however is that there is little education around business development, and communication is not a required field of study within their degrees. Rachael Bernstone, in particular, spoke about marketing and continued deeper into this theme and communication into day two’s panel session.

Conference Day Two: Master Classes – ‘Communicating Architecture’

Continuing from day one, the master class on day two provided insights and real applications into the gap of communication. Led by Catherine Townsend of Townsend + Associates, we were led into another panel style discussion including Jenny Edwards of Light House Architecture & Science, Patrick Kennedy of Kennedy Nolan, Dr Kirsty Voltz from QUT, Saneia Norton of Saneie Norton Design Communication. Further, the panel welcomed back Rachael Bernstone of Sounds Like Design from day one, who led discussion on the education gap of communication, and progress to including this in the National Standard of Competency for Architects (NSCA). There was a draft for consultation in December 2020:

‘PC13: Be able to implement relevant client management systems, marketing and business development.’

Unfortunately, this is yet to become recognized CPD and subsequently is somewhat a barrier to bridging this communication gap.

Moddex attends the Australian Architecture Conference

Watching the discussion unfold, it was interesting to see the dialogue exchange between architects and the public, or as they refer to us as “non architects” was eye opening. Likened to science – when you try to explain to non-scientists your work, Jenny Edwards re-told experiences through her journey of communication.

Key messages from the panelists were listed upfront; invest in communications, understand your audience, and find the hook. This set the tone for the skills lab which presented six communication scenarios; awards, conflict, pitch, clients, public and publish. The discussion wrapped up with an exercise running through a scenario and how you may communicate with a non-architect friend, family member or partner.

The Curtain Closing

As the curtain fell on the Australian Architecture Conference, it’s impossible to overlook the vibrant array of events that encapsulated the spirit and camaraderie in the architecture community. Most notably showcased during the Bondor Metecno Black & White Gala Dinner – this elegant event was a social highlight. The conference was more than a mere exchange of ideas, it was also a celebration of architectural brilliance. The National Awards evening was a fitting way to close out the two-day event – recognising the work and contributions in the field.

Moddex attends the Australian Architecture Conference

These occasions, combined with the insightful sessions and workshops, created an unforgettable and intellectually stimulating experience in 2023.

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Moddex
Moddex
New Zealand
Moddex is Australasia’s leading manufacturer of innovative barrier systems for large-scale infrastructure and non-residential construction projects.We do things differently at Moddex – we’re always on the lookout for better ways to solve the unique obstacles construction projects face, so that our customers can focus on doing what they do best.Everything FitsWith our expertise and processes, we can ensure you get the most competitive pricing, your project runs smoothly and we work with you to meet your strict budget and timeline.Our extensive range of handrails, barriers, commercial and industry balustrade and guardrail systems are specifically designed for a wide range of industrial, commercial and civil applications. All our systems comply with New Zealand Standards, BCA and WHS regulations, so you know you’re always covered.Our range of proprietary modular designs are manufactured in house and designed to save our customers time and money, and our personalised approach to customer service ensures you’re looked after from concept to installation. Our barrier systems are fit for purpose, simple to use, and able to be modified to cater for any unique requirements, and our streamlined ordering and installation process is designed with customer convenience in mind.Nationwide for rapid delivery and adviceWe operate across Australia and New Zealand. Wherever you are, there’s a Moddex team and warehouse not too far away – and our technical advisers are always at the end of the phone.Why choose Moddex?As the leading provider of modular handrails and balustrades, we stand behind our products 100%. Other handrail suppliers provide limited offerings and simply can’t match us on service, reliability and quality. At Moddex, we are excited to offer a variety of services including inhouse drafting, site measurement, engineering, compliant installation and more. Our breadth of experience gives us the tools to help clients every step of the way. Need something taller? Wider? Attached differently? In a unique design? We are all over it. We pride ourselves on providing innovative solutions to everyday challenges.Partner with ModdexGet in touch with our expert team, call us on 1800 663 339 (Australia) or 0800 663 339 (New Zealand) or download our product brochure. We’re here to help, whether you’re after technical support or you need advice on integrated systems. 

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