The Masters Project: Richard Johnson

Australian architecture is renowned for its exceptional quality and deep connection to the country’s unique landscape. But what does it truly take to master the art of architecture?

Join us for an insightful in-conversation series with some of Australia’s most awarded architects, as they share personal stories from their journey — reflecting on their early lessons, influential mentors and key takeaways from some of Sydney’s most iconic building projects.

This intimate series, in connection with the Library’s Year of Architecture, is perfect for aspiring architects, design enthusiasts, and anyone passionate about architecture, the built environment, and the future of our cities and neighbourhoods.

Richard Johnson AO MBE LFRAIA is associated with some of Australia’s most significant public buildings and public spaces, including the Australian War Memorial Eastern Precinct, National Portrait Gallery, Art Gallery of New South Wales New Asian Wing and the Sydney Opera House, on which he collaborated with Jørn Utzon and his son, Jan Utzon. Likewise, his commercial buildings are known for being no less civic in their impact — often giving back to the city by incorporating generous semi-public spaces, new connections, colonnades and the like. Richard was awarded an MBE in 1977, and the Australian Institute of Architects Gold Medal for Architecture in 2008.

Tim Horton (host) is an award-winning architect, operating at the intersection of environment, law and city planning. He is currently one of only ten full time Commissioners of the Land and Environment Court in NSW, the world’s first specialist Superior Court of its kind dealing with resources, environment and planning.

For more than two decades he has been a constant in the development of professional standards for the built environment sector and has advised state and national governments on policy in design, planning and development, regulation and innovation in the built environment. Proving nothing if not adaptable, from 2016-2018, Tim co-hosted the national television series ‘Australia by Design’, produced by MWC Media and viewed by more than 5m viewers.

Free tickets are available for First Nations audience members. Please reach out to us at to book your tickets.

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