This Value Talk presents the concept of Old & New: A Coastal Vernacular. Sustained population growth, a constant appetite for re-development, soaring property values and Pinterest-inspired facadism: these are some of the factors that have eroded much of the Gold Coast’s unprotected heritage.
We invite our speakers to present two projects, one old and one new. How can we embrace and extend the life of our unique built fabric, and ensure that it is appreciated by the occupants and the community? And if we are to build new, how can we make sure that what we replace it with is socially and environmentally sustainable? And how can new architecture reflect our relaxed coastal vernacular?
Join Matt Eagle from ME Architects, James Knight from James Knight Office, and Matt Cooper & Scott Mason from Aspect Architecture as they present a variety of projects, diving into the unique architecture of the Gold Coast.
We are offering a Livestream option for our regional members, and those that cannot make it in-person. Just select the Livestream option when you register
Matt Eagle | ME
Matthew is the director and founder of architecture and urban design studio ME and a teacher at the Abedian School of Architecture Bond University on the Gold Coast.
Matthew established ME in 2013 and is based at Jellurgal, Burleigh Heads. ME is a studio based architecture practice that emphasises design, research, making and teaching as the primary areas of focus. Together with our clients, community, consultants and craftspeople we investigate and seek to understand the cultural, ecological, societal and historical narratives of place. This is in search of the making of authentic, sensitive and climatically astute spaces and places.
James Knight | Knight Office
James Knight is an architect and founder of Knight Office, a Gold Coast based practice delivering residential, commercial, and community projects across Southeast Queensland.
With over 20 years’ experience spanning industrial, infrastructure, commercial and residential architecture, James brings a pragmatic approach to design. Knight Office focuses on material simplicity, considered detailing, and architecture that responds carefully to site, climate, and context.
Grounded in the coastal conditions of South East Queensland, the practice draws from the lightness and economy of the Australian vernacular, creating buildings that feel calm, enduring, and quietly confident.
Matthew Cooper (Nominated Architect) | Director Aspect Architecture
Founder of Aspect Architecture, Matt runs a practice that is passionate about making positive social and environmental impact. He has spent the last 25 years shaping a culture within Aspect Architecture that reflects the fundamental values of craftsmanship, collaboration, creativity, responsiveness, and open communication. Matt has long standing experience in all residential development and multi-residential with further experience in commercial, mixed use, public architecture and planning
Scott Mason Associate | Aspect Architecture
Scott is a registered architect (Vic #18415) who is deeply passionate about the practice of architecture. Scott has diverse and extensive experience that includes institutional, educational, and high-end commercial, residential and multi-residential development. With this experience Scott brings a level of creativity and problem solving that pushes the boundaries of the bigger picture yet is defined by the beauty of the details.