From June 9 to June 23 this year, the Asia Pacific Architecture Festival (APAF) has graced the city of Brisbane once again.
The eagerly anticipated event is a collaborative effort between Architecture Media and the State Library of Queensland, serving as a testament to the thriving architecture and design scene in the Asia Pacific region.
Renowned for its diverse and engaging program, APAF showcases a remarkable array of exhibitions, installations, symposia, lectures, and workshops.
By highlighting the profound impact of architecture and design on our culture, sustainability, and economy, the festival brings a deeper appreciation for these fields.
Proud Kamilaroi, Dunghutti and Biripi woman, Georgia Birks is the associate editor at Architecture Media and co-curator of the event. She notes the important role architecture plays in our every day life and ponders on why design actually matters.
"In each event, whether its an exhibition, panel discussion or tour, the event partners are talking about what role architecture plays culture sustainability and economy," she said.
"I think design matters for many different reasons - everybody encounters architecture each day. Whether that is when you're walking down the street, entering a gallery or a library, or you're just sitting in our own home.
"If that's been designed well, you'll notice it. And you'll also notice when it hasn't.
"It also can dapple into sustainability where architects may work with landscape architects or first nations consultants to regenerate a site and make it healthier.
"Thinking about how we can create energy in our buildings - I think that's quite an important thing moving into the future."
As the festival enters its eighth year at home in Brisbane, it extends its reach to include satellite events across various regions in Queensland.
"I think Brisbane's climate offers so much for design. The movability of the climate allows for unique and different types of living spaces," Ms Birks said.
"It's currently winter but the sun is out and it's beautifully warm."
"The state library is an expression of the Queensland lifestyle with that indoor-outdoor experience."
Embracing the possibilities of the digital realm, APAF will also offer online events, ensuring that patrons can participate regardless of their location.
State Librarian and CEO Vicki McDonald AM FALIA says that good architecture and design contributes to the wellbeing of our communities in many ways.
"From our award-winning South Bank building to our ground-breaking Hot Modernism exhibition in 2014, from our enduring partnership with Architecture Media to our future-focused Purpose Built architecture exhibition later this year, the importance of architecture to the quality of people's lives is embedded in State Library's DNA," Ms McDonald said.
"APAF is deeply local with a global outlook, and hosting events in Brisbane, regional Queensland, overseas and online means that even more people will engage with the festival this year."
Ms Birks also noted the importance of design in collaboration with First Nation consultants and how we can go beyond that scope to include direct benefits for the mob.
"Can it be a tenancy specific for First Nations people? Is it being built by a First Nations construction company? That's something I want to see more of," she said.
"When we speak to our neighbors in Aoteaora or Thailand and Singapore or China, how are they doing that? We can definitely learn from our Asia Pacific neighbours."
While this years festival is coming to a close, you can still view the full program and the partners involved and express your interest to get involved in the future.
