Sean Godsell gained his reputation through the spare, industrial forms of his residential work. He has lectured in theory in Australia, London and the USA, and in 2002 his Peninsula House won the ar+d award.

Why did you decide to become an architect?
My dad was an Architect and I grew up sitting on his knee while he drew and following him around to building sites. I didn't ever want to do anything else really. When I was five I wrote, 'When I grow up I want to be an Architect and draw all kinds of houses with my dad'... I got to do what I always wanted - how cool is that!

What keeps you motivated / inspired?
The desire to do something truly great combined with the need to pay the bills - the same as most people in other words.

What do you consider to be your greatest achievement?
My next work.

In your opinion what personal qualities make a good architect?
Stamina, determination, honesty, integrity, patience.

Have you ever said no to a client?
Yes.

Do you have a favourite architect? Why?
Not really.

What topics concern you regarding Australian architecture?
I think that Australia is a wonderful place to practise Architecture. At the start of the millennium, on the cusp of becoming a republic and in the midst of finally acknowledging our role in the South East Asian region Australian Architects find themselves in a highly charged social environment. How we respond to these conditions in built form will become a reflection of our time and result in the creation of a genuinely and uniquely Australian architecture.

Which Australian building excites you the most?
The Melbourne Cricket Ground is my favourite built space in Australia.

If you weren't an architect what would be?
Dead.

Your idea of perfect contentment?
Good food, good wine, good company, good location.

What possible future or futures do you foresee for the built world?
I think that issues to do with sensible environmental design will predominate over the next five to ten years. The reconciliation of excellence in environmental design and excellence in cutting edge aesthetics has the potential to uncover a new architectural language which is far more substantial than the pockets of wacky geometry buildings that some pundits would have you believe is breaking new ground.

What elements / concerns do you deem most important in your work?
I think I understand that the role of an Architect in society is marginal at best and that we only remain relevant if we are keen observers of society's material needs and emotional aspirations. All of the work produced in my office begins from this premise.