Five by Five

What are you working on now, and could you share something unique you’re bringing to the project?

To date, what has been your biggest business/design challenge and how did you overcome it?

Name: Donna Monaghan

Title: Director

Business: Form and Function Building Design, Warrnambool VIC

Our office is currently working on a commercial office and café project which is being built by Monaghan Constructions. Uniquely sited between two Warrnambool CBD laneways, this new building has intentionally focused on an old meets new approach. Raw fabric remains exposed inside and out, drawing on a warehouse feel, however, it is the use of natural light, a playful interior fitout and a multi-functional plan layout that gives this building its real edge. The project is a fresh approach to rethinking our work environment and the definition of spaces. It has been intentionally designed to be a community space and a large success of the project is the future activation of a forgotten laneway which will bring about the quirky heritage back entrances.

What is/are your favourite project/s you have worked on and why?

Working with renowned author Paul Jennings on the addition of his humble shack in the early days of my business was formative in many ways. Paul gave me an opportunity to push the ordinary perimeters of house design. Together we focused on creating a space that reflected his personality and needs, while also orientating the building to enjoy sunshine and view out to his self-seeded forest. This project gave me the confidence to test my design approach and taught me the value of the client relationship.

Without a doubt, the toughest project I have worked on was the St Joseph’s Parish Hall and Administration Building. Our office was faced with a multitude of eras of architecture and the challenge of the needs of the Parish and its variety of community groups. Demolition of noncontributory heritage buildings allowed for the construction of a new wing which has transformed the accessibility of the building. Renovation and restoration of the heritage buildings was a highlight of the project, with once forgotten architecture being opened back up to the community to admire. The largest challenge for this project was the structural issues we encountered with some of the restoration works and the challenge of discovering site services due to the age of the site.

A large success of this project was the inclusion of a perimeter garden around the bulk of the buildings which reduced the hard surface area and assists in the preservation of the bluestone and sandstone structures. Large underground water tanks were located under the garden beds and solar panels were discretely added to improve the buildings sustainability.

The addition of outdoor lighting has transformed this once blackened site into a visual architectural gift to the community.

Do you have any words of wisdom for a student wanting to work in your profession?

I was drawn to this field due to my love of graphic design and architecture, however in reality this is not the only part of the pie! Construction knowledge and understanding of construction codes is a critical part of the profession.

A large success of anyone in this profession is the capacity to listen to their client and challenge the design process. We are always learning and evolving in design and construction knowledge. The process of managing projects, councils, authorities and neighbours is also an important skill. In summary, be prepared to wear many hats!

Why did you join Design Matters National?

I joined back when it was the BDAV, as a student when studying at Gordon TAFE. It has been a great resource for me, especially in the early years of establishing my business.

In terms of professional development, what do you want to know more about?

Our office has recently added an interior design service to our practice. We are currently implementing a purpose-built project management tool – Programa to streamline our projects. We are always interested in discovering new building products and keeping updated with changes in the industry.

What is your favourite finish or feature?

I’m having a real moment with a Haymes ‘whitewash’ painted diagonal stripe on a red brick wall right now! I’m very drawn to pattern, colour and texture.

What is your favourite architectural style?

I believe less is more, and I am drawn to very simple, modern architecture that manages to feel warm, light and inviting. Our office appreciates most forms of architecture that are in keeping with their era and scale.

What is your favourite Australian building?

I recently went on a tour of the Sydney Opera House and was blown away by the up-close detailing of finishes. I was so impressed with the reinforced concrete vaulted structure. This building is a national treasure and it brought me much joy to witness its monolithic presence and the work involved in continuing it preservation.

What is your favourite international building?

At the risk of being unspecific, can I just say an entire small Italian village? I’d love to live in one for a year!

Which designer currently inspires your work?

Clare Cousins Architects immediately comes to mind! I admire her design style and use of fabric.