Nurturing Circular Architects of the Future: Populous & QUT’s Circulate Studio Collaboration

From March to June 2024, Populous partnered with Queensland University of Technology (QUT) to deliver the Circulate Studio, DAN 111, for Master of Architecture students. Designed by Professor Tim Schork and Dr Aparna Datey of QUT and Dr Kavita Gonsalves of Populous, the studio involved a mentorship model where students worked with their mentors at Populous Brisbane offices. The final review took place at QUT Gardens Point campus. Populous mentors James Pearce, Taryn McQueen, Nick Fitzgerald and Alex Ward engaged students with their experience of stadium and venue design, adaptive reuse and circular design. The sessions allowed students to receive timely feedback, adjust their projects, and refine their designs, all under the watchful eyes of experienced mentors from Populous.

AC: How did you integrate real-world sustainability challenges into the Circulate Studio Projects? 

TM: Integrating real-world sustainability challenges into studio projects involves teaching principles of space and design, rather than day-to-day office work. Key skills to impart during these mentoring sessions also included time management, presentation skills, and storytelling to explain projects to clients. We highlighted the importance of real-world experience towards improving the quality of the students’ work by building their practical exposure to coordination and consulting.  

JP: We encouraged students to think beyond immediate design needs and consider broader impacts such as material efficiency, operational considerations and user experience. Emphasis was placed on the practical application of detailed research, maintaining a fast-paced workflow and effectively communicating the narrative of their projects. Students were guided to plan presentations early and ensure their designs were informed by their research, focusing on the overall story rather than just showcasing all their work. 

AC: What were the innovative projects that emerged from the Circulate Studio collaboration? 

TM:  There were quite a lot of innovative ideas, such as using supermarket shelving for modular trash bundles and developing unique hexagonal modules. These projects emphasized the importance of a deep understanding and practical application in design. However, it’s crucial that students also consider the functionality and context of their modules. University projects should encourage creativity and critical thinking, pushing students to explore unconventional ideas rather than safe, obvious solutions. 

JP: It’s hard to pick a project: I was most excited by the work where students demonstrated thoroughness and understanding of circular economy principles. The concept of circularity, although relatively new in architecture, was a significant and valuable topic that wasn’t covered during my own university education. 

AC: What did you enjoy about mentoring students? Would you do it again? 

TM: It was really encouraging to see that the students were all confident in their direction. I am keen to teach this master’s course and push the boundaries of students’ projects beyond stipulated learning outcomes.  

JP: Absolutely. I thoroughly enjoy teaching and am eager to work with students to help them understand the context while fostering creativity through speculative projects. 

The collaboration between Populous and QUT through the Circulate Studio has proven to be a valuable initiative in nurturing the next generation of architects. By providing students with real-world challenges and the guidance of experienced mentors, the program has helped to bridge the gap between academic theory and professional practice. Populous looks forward to such collaborations that will be crucial in ensuring that the architects of tomorrow are well-equipped to tackle the challenges of sustainable design and innovation.