Perth architect Geoff Warn has been appointed as the new Government Architect in Western Australia after a nation-wide selection process.

Taking over the reins from Steve Woodland, who served in the role from 2009 to November 2013, Warn is the founding partner and director of multidisciplinary design studio Donaldson + Warn.

He has developed a career in architecture, urban design and master planning over the past 33 years, as well as a long-standing commitment to architectural education.

The latter has seen him take on the position of professor of architecture at Curtin University, visiting lecturer, and curator of architecture and design exhibitions. Warn has also participated in various government and institutional design and awards panels.

The role of the Government Architect was created in 2003 to provide leadership and strategic advice to government to improve the design of public buildings and spaces, and enhance the quality of the built environment. This includes the provision of expert, independent advice about:

  • Landscape architecture and civic design matters generally
  • Strategic approaches to major development projects
  • Initiatives to improve the design of public buildings
  • Maintaining strong links with the building design professions and architectural schools within the State, and facilitating constructive working relationships between these bodies and the Government

The Government Architect reports to the Minister for Finance, with the Office linked to Building Management and Works within the Department of Finance.

Warn will now oversee WA’s Better Places and Spaces: A Policy for the Built Environment in Western Australia action plan, which aims to improve the quality of the public realm, as well as raise awareness of the benefits of good design.

“Geoff has a well-deserved reputation for his commitment for quality in the built environment and I welcome his contribution to encouraging design excellence in this state,” said Minister for Energy; Finance; Citizenship and Multicultural Interests, Dr Mike Nahan.

“I am keen to build on the achievements of the previous Government architects and advance the objectives of the built environment policy Better Places and Spaces.”

To find out more about the Office of the Government Architect (WA), please visit http://www.finance.wa.gov.au/cms/content.aspx?id=3839