Beginning his career five years ago, Graduate Architect Jerram Rosen brings a curious and considered approach to his work. This year, he returned to Melbourne Design Week, a permanent fixture in his design travel calendar.

 

"Melbourne Design Week is an incredible performance of creativity and innovation. The event fuels my interest in the familiars and the unknowns, and each year I leave the festival energised and inspired to draw on these experiences as i push the boundaries of my architectural practice."
Jerram

1. ‘CALL OUT’ Presented by Do Works
‘CALL OUT’ was a compelling exhibition that explored the dynamic nature of furniture design as material research. Curated by Do Works, the exhibition included contributions from Second Edition, the collaborative venture of Shahar Cohen and Amy Seo, alongside notable works from Sean Godsell, Five Mile Radius and other local icons. This showcase highlighted the current innovations permeating in material discourse and highlighted the importance of collaboration in putting the show together.

2. (MATTERS) at Villa Alba
(MATTERS) at Villa Alba was an intriguing exploration of material processes and longevity in the context of a historical setting. The exhibition served up an array of contemporary furniture, objects and material explorations in the Victorian estate, making for a rich, sensory encounter for visitors.
Highlights of the exhibition included works by Tom Fereday, Studio Tops and Thomas Maxam.

3. ‘Squiggles and Cubes’ Exhibition presented by Meagan Streader and Billy Horn
Streader and Horns ‘Squiggles and Cubes’ exhibition was a sensory journey of light, sculpture and atmosphere. Set against a backdrop of Carlton’s historic Old Tie factory, the exhibit was an array of opaque sculptural interventions that magnified and manipulated the surrounding space of the old factory making for an immersive and playful installation. The event for me underscored the value of subtle material gestures and the role these play in creating memorable and atmospheric interior spaces.

4. Melbourne Art Book Fair
The Melbourne Art Book Fair showcased a captivating collection of architecture and design publications. This year's event featured rare books, zines, contemporary releases, and insightful talks by renowned authors. Attendees had the opportunity to explore the latest in design literature and engage with thought leaders in the field.

5. MPavilion by Tadao Ando
Marking the tenth intervention of the series, the MPavilion designed by Legendary Japanese architect Tadao Ando was a personal highlight of the festival. Set in the Queen Victoria Gardens across the way from the NGV, the pavilion emerges out of the park as a humble and curious monolith of solids and voids.

Internally, the essence of Ando’s work can be seen in his pared back use of materials, subtle curation of light and thoughtful inclusion of water features.

 

The minimal architectural space is a must-visit for architects and design-lovers alike.

In closing, Jerram reflects on his experience:

 

“Melbourne Design Week remains a rich source of design inspiration, offering a vibrant display of both established and emerging design practices, making it an essential showcase of creativity. Each year, it reminds me to continue exploring the endless possibilities of design and staying connected to our local and global design community.”