In this episode, we speak with Elliot Spring from MGS Architects about her journey from studying at Columbia University in New York and living in Norway, to her current role as an architect, urban planner, and master planning specialist in Australia. Elliot reflects on her formative years in New York and the influence of that education on her approach to design back home.

Our conversation explores the importance of embedding strong ideas and human-centred principles at the master planning stage for projects of all scales. Elliot shares thoughtful insights on the value of investing in master plans, even knowing that the practice may never be invited to design any of the individual buildings within them. She explains how rigorous, people-focused planning can deliver extraordinary outcomes for communities by shaping precincts that prioritise livability, inclusivity, and long-term value.

Elliet Spring is a director of MGS Architects, having joined the practice in 2014. Her formative professional years spent living and working in Norway and New York have helped shape her approach to architecture, from her focus on civic responsibility to her passion for architecture and urban design as catalysts for enriching human experience. She works comfortably between architecture and urban design and has been instrumental in broadening her practice’s Campus Master Plan portfolio.

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 miniseries Again&Again&Again is proudly supported by the Alstair Swayne Foundation. The Institute production team was Madelynn Jenkins, and Claudia McCarthy, and the EmAGN production team was Alistair Noncarrow and Daniel Moore.

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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.