Global architecture, engineering and construction think tank, the Design Futures Council (DFC), has been launched in Australia.
The DFC is an interdisciplinary network of design, product, and construction leaders exploring global trends, challenges, and opportunities to advance innovation and shape the future of the industry and environment. Members include architecture, engineering, contractors, planners and design firms, building product manufacturers, service providers, and AEC firms. The first council was established in Atlanta, USA in 1994.
Behind the launch of the Australian DFC is past CEO of the Australian Institute of Architects (AIA), David Parken, and past NSW manager of an association for built environment consultants, Alexia Lidas.
“The business of design is changing more than ever before. In response firms need big picture global thinking, and foresight to help steer them” says Parken.
“Alexia and I both have a background in industry associations, so we are very clear about what’s in the market and we have no desire to re-invent the wheel. Until now, there was no other organisation bringing leaders from all disciplines in the built environment together, to discuss the business of design.”
In October 2017, the organisation held its first event, a Leadership Summit on Applied Innovation and Technology.
Some of the early Australian DFC members include Rothelowman, Fender Katsalidis, Holding Redlich, Hayball, Vertiv, Colin Biggers and Paisley, Boral, C2R, Form Engineers, Forrest and Wood Products Australia, Fleetwood and BCI Media.
