by ArchitectureWeek

To understand the origins and purposes of life in its myriad forms and in its totality is an ancient aspiration of the human being. It sustains our journey towards wholeness. It urges us to reach deep into ourselves, high above ourselves and into all things, so that we can bear, celebrate and share the fruits of our journey.

The architect has a uniquely powerful medium in which to make this journey. When we enter the mystery of the creative process, the forms we make embody ourselves and bring into dynamic and living conversation what we were, what we are and what we could be. The manner in which these forms flow out from us affirms our place in the wider world of community and nature.

This professional design philosophy rings a note of calm humility in a world screaming with architectural celebrity and chest-thumping highrises. The words are from Gregory Burgess. It has just been announced that he will receive the prestigious Gold Medal for Architecture from the Royal Australian Institute of Architects.   >>>

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Gregory Burgess has been honored with the Royal Australian Institute of Architects Gold Medal for Architecture. Photo: Greg Elms Melbourne's Catholic Theological College is one of Burgess's best known works. Photo: John Gollings   Click on thumbnail images to view full-size pictures.