Rosemary Burne

Principal at Conrad Gargett

Over twenty years, Rosemary has developed extensive expertise in research, design, project leadership and consultation. She establishes strong and productive relationships with clients, project managers, consultants and builders, which influences better project outcomes.

With excellent leadership and management skills, Rosemary has an intensive focus on developing quality teams to deliver excellent architecture. Rosemary knows that it takes the skills of a diverse team to deliver sustainable architectural outcomes for end-users and the broader community. Rosemary enjoys contributing to the public realm on highly complex projects.

Driven with a genuine dedication to excellence in the practice of architecture, Rosemary ensures that she stays connected with the wider professional community through activities such as serving on the Institute of Architecture Awards juries, regular involvement in Institute and industry activities. Rosemary also actively contributes to the education of younger architects.

 

What inspires you to design
Ideas that fit the project objectives drives design projects.  Ultimately a good design gives comfort, highly functional and fit for purpose and of course gives pleasure and delight.

How did you develop your style?  
Lots of looking, thinking, listening and learning (eg: in fashion, design, art, culture, history, ideas) – over many many years.

What do you think is the biggest challenge in the architectural industry today?
For the value of good design to be recognised – but this is changing.  For the value of design to be recognised we need to include design as part of the school curriculum – compulsory and as an ongoing subject.

What gets you through the day?
Seeking out and working with people who are good at what they do.  Coupled with starting the day with some ‘me’ time.

Are you a tea or coffee person?
Coffee

What do you think is the greatest invention of all time?
At the moment – the smart phone.

What is something you can’t live without?
My smart devices.  Balanced by staying connected with my body and nature.

What is your favourite brand at the moment?
Any brand that represents quality.

What is your favourite place to eat?
Any place that services well designed food – light, fresh, food and memorable ambience.

What product excited you the most recently?
My Nestle coffee capsules and coffee machine

What’s your favourite colour at the moment?
I’m fond of hot pink.

What is the greatest thing you’ve learnt through your career?
Knowledge and dedication is not enough to be successful.  Life is a cocktail – enjoy it, savour it – live it. 

What methodologies, systems or routines do you have in place to make sure you are productive everyday?
Self care – wake early, enjoy a peaceful, perfect coffee, exercise outdoors, embrace thinking time – all before the working day has started.  And early to bed ready for the next day.