In this episode, Vyasa McPherson and Daniel Moore speak with Ella Masters, Registered Architect and Studio Lead of Hayball’s Canberra studio, whose career bridges architecture, education consultancy, and applied research. Originally starting in law before transitioning to architecture, Ella has developed a deep expertise in designing contemporary learning environments for schools and universities.

Ella shares her journey through notable educational projects, her involvement in the Mayfield Project during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the insights she gained while children were learning from home. Now undertaking a PhD in Education and Innovative Practice at the University of Melbourne, she explores the drivers of innovation in educational design, focusing on how outcomes are shaped by engagement processes, procurement methods, and education policy.

The conversation delves into the critical role of both the educational brief and design brief in aligning architectural outcomes with pedagogy, the interplay between educational campuses and public space, and the value of linking academia with practice. Ella also discusses how research can be made more accessible, the benefits and challenges of working across disciplines, and her commitment to ensuring learning spaces are inclusive, flexible, and grounded in evidence-based design.

Our sponsor Brickworks also produces architecture podcasts hosted by Tim Ross. You can find ‘The Art of Living’, ‘Architects Abroad, and ‘The Power of Two’, at brickworks.com.au or your favourite podcast platform.

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This is a production by the Australian Institute of Architects Emerging Architects and Graduates Network, in collaboration with Open Creative Studio. The Institute production team was Katie Katos, Claudia McCarthy, and Mark Broadhead, and the EmAGN production team was Vyasa McPherson and Daniel Moore.

This content is brought to you by the Australian Institute of Architects Emerging Architects and Graduates Network, in collaboration with Open Creative Studio. This content does not take into account specific circumstances and should not be relied on in that way. This content does not constitute legal, financial, insurance, or other types of advice. You should seek independent verification or advice before relying on this content in circumstances where loss or damage may result. The Institute endeavours to publish content that is accurate at the time it is published, but does not accept responsibility for content that may or will become inaccurate over time.

We respectfully acknowledge the Traditional Owners of country throughout Australia where this podcast was produced, as the first storytellers, the first communities and the first creators of Australian culture. I extend that respect to the Traditional Custodians of country throughout the multiple places abroad where this podcast was recorded. We thank Traditional Custodians for caring for Country for thousands of generations. and recognise their profound connection to land, water, and skies.