Welcome to Future Talks by RTF, where we delve into the minds shaping the architectural landscape. In our upcoming conversation, we are privileged to host Fiona Dunin, the visionary founder of FMD Architects. With over three decades of experience, Fiona’s fusion of interior design and architecture has redefined the essence of space and storytelling within built environments.
At FMD Architects, the philosophy goes beyond mere structures; it embodies narratives. Fiona’s keen eye for detail and her relentless pursuit of material innovation have birthed spaces that echo the tales of their surroundings and inhabitants—bridging the past with the present.
Their approach resonates in the seamless blend of sustainability, client essence, and site responsiveness, forging spaces that not only exist but breathe life. Their work oscillates between the pragmatic and poetic, crafting bespoke, ingenious designs tailored to local nuances.
Join us as we unravel the intricacies of Fiona Dunin’s approach, discovering how FMD Architects’ designs transcend the conventional, elevating well-being and fostering a profound connection to place. Get ready to explore the intersection of innovation and tradition in architecture and interior design.
RTF: Hi Fiona, We are glad to have you as a guest on Future Talks by RTF. Thanks for joining us. How would you highlight the importance of constantly evolving in architecture? How do you look at it in your work at FMD since you began?
Fiona: I think no matter what field you are in you constantly need to evolve. In the case of our practice, we are constantly exploring new materials, new technologies and construction methods and also ways of communicating. As are working internationally and often designing and constructing our buildings remotely, this is more important than ever.
RTF: What are some challenging aspects of being an architect that aren’t commonly talked about? And how has time reshaped them?
Fiona: Learning to read and listen to people is a skill that many architects don’t develop. By listening and understanding our clients and the people we work and collaborate with allows a much richer design outcome. Over time I have developed this to understand and respond tho the uniqueness of every individual.
RTF: What is your process of developing the initial thoughts about a project? How do you start?
Fiona: I actually start very pragmatically. Developing the plan and the functional layout of the spaces and researching the history of the site. I am not working about what the form is or what it will look like yet. These plans and our research lead to wonderful conversations about our clients likes and aspirations for the project which allows me to embed their particularities into the design as it develops
RTF: What is your design philosophy and what shaped it?
Fiona: My design philosophy is to always have a harmonious balance between the pragmatic and the poetic. Make sure the building functions well and imbue it with the poetry of the people and the place to create a unique design outcome tailored to our clients needs and aspirations.
RTF: How do you look at the work beyond designing for young architects, such as the likes of involvement in publishing, handling media and building an online presence?
Fiona: Being published is always fantastic but dont design a building with the aim of getting it published. Design for your clients first and foremost, and build your reputation through thorough and rigorous design responses. Then communicate your design philosophies through your own online portals first. Investing in the best photographers who can capture your architecture and your design ideas is also important.
RTF: What do you think of building a social media presence for architects? How important is it and what does it demand from the architects who choose to do it all on their own?
Fiona: It is important in this day and age to have an online presence, but word of mouth from our clients is still the main way we get the next project. The online presence helps reinforce the brand and also makes our clients proud to have their projects exposed to the rest of the world.
RTF: What are the changes in the Australian Architectural landscape that also mirror Global changes or vice-versa and how do you look at it?
Fiona: During Covid working remotely really changed how we work and where we will work. We now work both in Australia but also in Europe and potential projects in other countries. The digital technology to survey sites with point cloud surveys and drones have been a game changer for us. Also online meetings and collaborative drawing and presentation tools allow us work communicate with our clients and collaborators all over the world which is incredible. Don’t get me wrong, I still can’t beat being on site and watching and listening and feeling the space we are working with and meeting with people in person to see how they react to their site and our designs.
