Fit for purpose: The transformation of heritage buildings to meet 21st Century needs

At the time a building is being designed, how often do we know all the functions it will fulfil during its life? To remain ‘fit for purpose’ buildings are often required to evolve in response to changing needs, a process that seeks to balance philosophical concerns with practical considerations, and even community expectations.

This special online conversation, presented in conjunction with the Australian Heritage Festival, brings together a panel of experts representing key Victorian cultural, community and civic institutions. Tune in to hear them discuss the transformation of heritage buildings to meet 21st Century needs and how this process can enrich architectural design and building quality.

Panellists

Dean Lee, CEO, Shrine of Remembrance

Dean Lee was appointed Chief Executive Officer at Victoria’s Shrine of Remembrance in July 2015, a position he considers himself privileged to hold, and the pinnacle of his career. Dean is an accomplished executive with more than 30 years’ international experience in commercial, not-for-profit and government roles spanning the heritage, tourism, membership and environment sectors. As CEO, he provides strategic, governance and development support to the Shrine of Remembrance Trustees and operational leadership to the Shrine’s executive team and personnel. Dean holds a Bachelor of Applied Science and Executive MBA and has achieved professional certification with the Australian Institute of Company Directors, Project Management International and the Australian Institute of Management.

Peter Elliott AM, Peter Elliott Architecture + Urban Design

Peter Elliott is a Melbourne architect and recipient of the 2017 Gold Medal from the Australian Institute of Architects. He is currently an Adjunct Professor of Practice at the Faculty of Art Design & Architecture at Monash University. In 2015 he was awarded an honorary Doctor of Architecture by the University of Melbourne. He has a special interest in the design of the public realm, and has lectured and written extensively on contemporary architecture and urban design. In 2015 he authored the book “Episodic Urbanism”. The work of the practice has won more than 85 National and State architectural and industry awards. This includes an Order of Australia in 1987 for services to architecture (public housing); RAIA Victorian Architecture Medals for the Carlton Baths & Community Centre 1991, and the Parliament of Victoria Member’s Annexe 2019.

Lauren Ellis, Curatorial Manager, Bendigo Art Gallery

Lauren is Curatorial Manager at the Bendigo Art Gallery where “Elvis: Direct from Graceland” is currently showing. She holds a Masters in Art Curatorship from the University of Melbourne and has extensive experience in various roles at the University of Melbourne and Museums Victoria. These include Program Manager, Curation and Innovation at the University of Melbourne, and Experience Developer and Exhibitions Manager at Immigration Museum. Lauren has led the museum sector as President of the Victorian Branch and National Councillor of the Australian Museums and Galleries Association. With her training in curatorial practices and museum background, Lauren’s focus is on ‘audience experience’. She creates exhibitions that are accessible, welcoming, and enjoyable, where she sees her role as a steward for collections, not the owner.