Bond University today announced the introduction of a new school established to meet the growing demand for sustainably built environments.
The Soheil Abedian School of Architecture will open in January 2011, heralding a new era of Australian architects with specialisation in ecologically and socially sustainable built environment design.
The University’s new School is the result of a generous gift from Bond University alumnus parent and long-time supporter, Soheil Abedian.
In recognition of Soheil’s generosity and standing as an exceptional architect himself, the School will be named in his honour.
Bond University Vice-Chancellor Professor Robert Stable said the University values its extensive network of alumni and their families and is very grateful for the continued support they provide to progress the University, its facilities, and the student experience.
“It is through our relationship with our alumni and the generous financial support from our benefactors that Bond University continues to grow as a leader in education, offering students state-of-the-art facilities and global learning experiences,” Professor Stable said.
“On behalf of the University, I extend my gratitude to Soheil for his continued support over the past several years. This latest gift is significant for the University, the Australian community and most importantly the students as it has enabled Bond to offer a unique Architecture program at a time when sustainable design is critically important,” he said.
As Sunland Group founder with development companies in Australia and the Middle East, Soheil Abedian is at the forefront of world-leading architecture design.
“I am delighted to see that Bond University has established an architectural faculty, which will be the centre of design excellence for students,” Mr Abedian said.
“It is my ardent hope that the graduates will receive an education that will be fundamental in shaping the urban built form in Australia as well as contributing to international design innovation and excellence.
“I have no doubt that Bond has the vision to make its mark on an international level,” he said.
Head of the Mirvac School of Sustainable Development, Professor George Earl, who will oversee the establishment of the School said, “The demand to design living environments that are sustainable and to address climate change issues are increasing exponentially.
“Climate change has required we evolve the way we design buildings. Two years ago, the school undertook a survey of green rated building in Australia with 12 projects identified. The survey is currently being repeated but with 140 projects now participating.
“Through the establishment of the School of Architecture we aim to become world-leaders in producing graduates that are qualified in holistic sustainable architecture that is of international standard,” he said.
Students will experience first-hand the benefits and requirements of a sustainably designed building as classes will be held in the award-winning, 6 Star Green Star design rated Mirvac School of Sustainable Development building – Australia’s first higher education building to receive the elite design rating.
Over the next year, Soheil will chair a panel of industry experts including Chris Gee, the Gold Coast’s Queensland Government architect, to establish the program’s curriculum.
In accordance with the Australian accreditation standards, students are required to complete both undergraduate and postgraduate programs before receiving their qualifications.
The Soheil Abedian School of Architecture will offer 50 commencing places in 2011 for the undergraduate program.
Students who are interested in learning more about the Bachelor of Architectural Studies should call 1800 074 074.
Visit bond.edu.au/architecture for all the latest facts on the program.