Australian architect Glenn Murcutt has been unveiled as the designer of the 2019 MPavilion in Melbourne. The announcement, revealed today by the Naomi Milgrom Foundation – the commissioning body behind the annual architectural event – marks the launch of this year’s cycle for the pavilion, which will be the structure’s sixth iteration.
Murcutt’s participation will surely be widely welcome, long respected and recognised as a key proponent of modern Australian architecture, he was honoured with the Pritzker Prize in 2002. He is also a well known champion of an environmentally sensitive approach that is firmly ‘of its place’. The architect’s rich portfolio includes a variety of single family houses, as well as the recently completed Australian Islamic Centre in Melbourne (undertaken in equal collaboration with architect Hakan Elevli).
Glenn Murcutt is arguably Australia’s most recognised architect. Photography: Anthony Browell
When asked about this year’s choice of architect, MPavilion founder Naomi Milgrom explained: ‘Quintessentially Australian and ahead of his time, Glenn’s thoughtfulness about people, placemaking and the environment continues to inspire us all.’ It is this sensitivity, sense of place and cross-disciplininary aspect that will no doubt shine through the 2019 MPavilion commission, the design of which will be unveiled later in the year.
‘It’s extraordinary what Naomi has achieved with MPavilion’, says Murcutt. ‘She’s one of the great people in this country for supporting the arts, and more than just art but architecture, with a special understanding of city life. MPavilion is an interesting and assiduous project, and I’m honoured to be commissioned.’
Murcutt’s MPavilion is scheduled to open to the public on 12 November 2019 and access will be free, and accompanied by a varied programme of specially planned events. §
