Louise Cox INTERNATIONAL UNION OF ARCHITECTS

Louise Cox
International Union of Architects

www.uia-architectes.org

After having gained significant architectural experience with an emphasis on conservation and planning, Louise Cox became the first woman to be appointed President of the Royal Australian Institute of Architects in 1994. She has since gone on to work for the International Union of Architects and the Board of Standards Australia, while maintaining an active presence in heritage conservation.

Why did you decide to become an architect?
I enjoy people and I wanted to make sure they enjoyed their built environment, so I wanted to make a difference to their lives and to conserve the environment.

What keeps you motivated / inspired?
Meeting students and young people, who excite and inspire me, and being challenged.

What do you consider to be your greatest achievement?
Being elected as Vice President of the International Union of Architects for the Asia and Oceania region in 2002, and being able through this organisation, to achieve things that will enhance the education and practice of architects regionally and globally.

In your opinion what personal qualities make a good architect?
Someone who listens and interprets the client's wishes, without compromising their ideals and social responsibility.

Have you ever said no to a client?
Yes, because the project we were working on was not feasible the way the client wanted to do it. Consequently we were no longer on the job, but it felt morally right to me.

Do you have a favourite architect? Why?
The Finnish architect Alvar Aalto. He understood the place in which he placed his buildings and the materials he used and their colours. The three dimensional aspects and the feeling of compatibility with people using and enjoying them was paramount with him.

What topics concern you regarding Australian architecture?
That we acknowledge our heritage, keep it viable for the enjoyment and use of future generations and remember we have it.

Which Australian building excites you the most?
Where the natural landscape is dominant and buildings are subservient and complimentary to it.

If you weren't an architect what would you be?
A strategic planner in the Defence Forces.

Your idea of perfect contentment?
Drifting down the river whilst reading a book and going gently out to sea, when the water temperature is 22 degrees, on the South Coast of NSW.

What possible future or futures do you foresee for the built world?
Remembering that the world is made up of people who need water, shelter and dignity in a natural and built environment with which they feel comfortable.

What elements / concerns do you deem most important in your work?
Being a catalyst to help people, through lateral thinking, to survive in this world.