Name:

Rob Henry

 

Where do you work?

Rob Henry Architects

 

Current job title and function?

Sole Practitioner

 

Why did you choose architecture as a profession?

My parents were rather persuasive.

 

What are you working on now?

A series of residential projects from the small scale low budget reno’s to a highly polished solar passive concrete and zinc new build.

 

Most challenging or interesting project you’ve ever worked on and why?

Tough one! Doesn’t every project you work on seem a bit more challenging than the last as you strive to find the best solution whilst also meeting the increasing number of guidelines, regulations and box-ticking exercises?

My interest seems to be sparked when a client’s brief is completely non-conformist. The shipping container lookalike cantilevering over an untouched ex-govie will always sit high on the ‘interesting’ list.

 

Who is your role model?

I admire lots of people, but I don’t know anyone that’s perfect.

 

Any advice for young architects just starting their career?

You learn more when you interact with other people. A random conversation with an extraordinary architect doesn’t happen if you go home and watch reality television. I’m very grateful for the numerous encounters I have had with Australia’s leading practitioners, and the advice and stories that they have shared.

 

What is your favourite piece of art?

I have a massive artwork of a chicken on the wall at home. She is poised in a moment of contemplation. The background is black and endless. She is going places in her mind that are beyond the average chickens reach. Her next step could lead her anywhere.

 

What do you see as one of the biggest issues facing the architectural profession?

TIME. Everyone seems to no longer afford time to learn, explore, share stories, research and play with architecture outside of office hours.

 

If you weren’t an architect, what do you think you would be doing?

Landscape Architecture. I still might.

 

What is your most underrated talent?

Helping a cow give birth.

 

What is the most used app on your phone?

Is the alarm clock an app? If not, the calculator.

 

What are you addicted to?

Sultanas.

 

What do you wish you were told before starting in this profession?

To be prepared to be consumed by it.

 

The world needs more of …………………

Ranga’s. And real ones; not those dyed wannabees.

 

The World needs less of ………………….

Reality TV. “They aren’t REAL people”.