OVERVIEW:

Join us for an informative, engaging, and enriching FREE workshop at the UNIOS Showroom on 21 August, from 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM. Designed for university and TAFE students of Building Design, this is the first in a series of EMERGE/REFRESH events aimed at nurturing the industry’s emerging leaders by imparting essential knowledge and must-have skills.

The evening will commence with an opportunity for attendees to connect with other students, recent graduates, or early career professionals looking for a ‘refresh’. It also provides a chance to network among industry professionals (aka your potential future employers!) and enjoy complimentary food and beverages.

First up: a panel presentation on Documentation featuring DMN Chair Peter Lombo (Archsign), DMN Board member Jason Holmes (TRG Australia), DMN Member Ari Karsarian, Creative Director – Ari Alexander Design Group, and the 2023 winner of the DMN Award for Excellence in Documentation by an Emerging Designer, Keron Lee.

The panel will delve into the significance of documentation in building design, what employers look for in portfolios, and tips on developing a personal design style. Topics such as liveable housing design, access architecture, and commercial project documentation, including AS1428 standards, will also be touched upon. 

A Q&A session will provide opportunities to engage directly with the panellists and have all your burning questions answered. 

With Documentation done and dusted, DMN will then offer attendees another essential skill to put in their professional toolkit: public speaking. 

Lacking the confidence to present effectively, whether it be to a teacher, client, or colleague, is common among emerging designers. The Performologist, Hayden Spencer, is here to help, with a 30-minute session on how to ace presentations.

The evening will conclude with more refreshments (on the house) and a post-networking session, offering students the opportunity to showcase and receive feedback on their own projects.  

SPEAKERS:

Hayden Spencer, The Performologist
In elite circles, Hayden is known as a “secret weapon” for CEOs across Australia and abroad, calling upon his expertise when preparing for major keynote presentations. Hayden’s resume includes Performance Coach with Cirque du Soleil, the National Institute of Circus Arts, the Starlight Foundation, Queensland University of Technology, and the Film and Television Studio International. He works with URBIS as a performance coach for their emerging leaders and is engaged as a Performance Tutor at the University of Melbourne.  Hayden also assists the ADAQ, AGPAL and QIP, GRT Lawyers, the Queensland Government, and Supercheap Auto.

 Keron Lee

 A sign of things to come, at 15, Keron’s parents woke to the smell of paint, as she embarked on her first ‘renovation’.  She has spent many years in the renovation industry and has recently moved into building design to complement her practical experience.  A life long learner, she studied interior design at RMIT, building studies at Holmesglen and Swinburne,  and is currently completing a Bachelor of Architecture Swinburne University. A HIA Award winner, designing for period homes and special needs, her recent awards include innovative tiny house design (under 45sqm) and construction documentation.  Keron has a passion for sustainability, extending the lifespan of new buildings and incorporating recycled materials into new projects.  A strong advocate of design that works, Keron is known for innovative design solutions that facilitate desirable outcomes for a wide range of projects. Aging in place, longevity by design and liveable housing are high priorities for both renovations and new buildings she contributes to. Intrinsically curious, life, travel, study, photography and various artistic pursuits, have informed and influenced the way Keron approaches each project. 

Ari Karsarian, Creative Director – Ari Alexander Design Group

Ari Karsarian is a distinguished Creative Director at Ari Alexander Design Group, with over 15 years of experience.  Renowned for his innovative approach to building design and architectural aesthetics, Ari has a keen eye for detail and a passion for transformative spaces. His expertise spans residential and heritage, where he seamlessly integrates functionality with striking visual appeal. Ari's designs are characterized by their elegant simplicity, thoughtful use of materials, and a deep respect for the surrounding environment. Ari’s portfolio showcases a diverse range of successful projects, each reflecting his commitment to quality and innovation. Ari's work has been featured in numerous publications, earning accolades for both design excellence and creative ingenuity. As Creative Director, Ari is known for his collaborative approach, working closely with clients to bring visionary concepts to life. Ari’s dedication to pushing design boundaries and his ability to translate complex ideas into elegant solutions make him a pivotal force in the world of building design, setting new standards for excellence and innovation.

 Peter Lombo, Archsign

Peter graduated at RMIT University in 1986 with an Associate Diploma of Architectural Technology and founded Archsign in 1988. Peter’s passion for collaboration and rapport with his team deliver the best quality in design and value for clients. His direction is prominent in the quality assurance of the design, documentation and construction phases, including the ongoing coordination with client representatives, project managers and consultants. Peter is a member of the Building Practitioners’ Board (BPB) and has received a number of awards for his work.

Jason Holmes, TRG Aus
With over 25 years’ experience working as a building designer, Jason has continued further higher education studies whilst being lucky enough to have progressed his professional career in becoming a director of a design practice in the last 15 years employing over ninety people across 3 countries.  Focused on overseeing our commercial and retail design, he provides design services from concept through to onsite completion. With a passion for design, building client relationships and the built environment being part of a peak body board allows Jason to give back to an industry he is passionate about. As a designer it is not a job it is a livelihood and being able to inform and influence our built environment and urban surround comes with great responsibility but a higher reward.  Jason looks forward to sharing his experience and learnings to members and the industry.

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