The Australian Institute of Architects has officially welcomed Paul Berkemeier as the 74th National President at the Annual General Meeting in Melbourne this week.

Mr Berkemeier is a Sydney-based director of an award winning small practice with extensive experience in a broad range of projects including large scale urban design and planning, public buildings, medical and research projects, single and multi-unit housing, schools, exhibition design and heritage buildings.

Institute CEO David Parken welcomed Mr Berkemeier into the position.

‘Paul has a very high profile in the profession and has been closely involved with the Institute for over 15 years including terms as chair of the NSW education committee and as a national councillor.

‘It is my pleasure to present Paul as the next leader of the Institute and champion for our members and the profession,’ Mr Parken said.

Mr Berkemeier takes over the reins in the lead up to the federal election and is enthused about his tenure at a time of reflection and action on matters integral to the profession and the built environment.

‘I consider it a great privilege and honour to be entrusted with this role and I look forward to working with fellow members and Institute staff to gain the recognition that the value of design warrants,’ he said.

Paul Berkemeier graduated in architecture from the University of Sydney in 1975 and was awarded Master in Architecture from Harvard in 1983. He worked with the Commonwealth Government and then as an Associate Director of Denton Corker Marshall before establishing his own practice in 1988. An active advocate for architectural education and accreditation, he has taught design studios at numerous Australian architecture schools and has been Visiting Professor and Adjunct Professor at the University of Sydney.

Mr Berkemeier assumes the role from Shelley Penn who has been a passionate voice for the profession and the Institute.

‘Shelley has been a tremendous leader and role model not only for women architects and sole practitioners but for all members and I commend and thank her for dedication and commitment,’ David Parken said.

Western Australian architect David Karotkin is the new National President Elect.