Q&A with David Plumb

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Written By Sarah Chan

Now we might be a little biased, but we think CORNERBLOCK looks pretty darn awesome. Certainly not a typical commercial building, CORNERBLOCK has personality and you can’t help but feel connected, calm and welcome - three words that you wouldn’t usually associate with a commercial building. Allow us to introduce you to David Plumb, the brilliant building designer of CORNERBLOCK to learn more about his influences and work process.

David, you have designed and fabricated some amazing projects over the past few years, what types of projects are you drawn to?

There are several aspects that draw me towards a project, I definitely have a penchant for sustainability, so any project that swings in that direction is distinctly attractive to me. I am also particularly pulled to architecture that incorporates parametric design and/or allows for the use of digital fabrication methods, which tends to lean into my absolute bread and butter, the opportunity to get hands on and construct aspects of what I design!

What inspires your design process?

Once I've gotten the client’s brief, ideally I like to do a good amount of research, understanding the target demographic, site, building typology etc, this allows a solid concept to form. If the opportunity allows, I typically aim to enhance any perceived social or community aspects applicable with the design, sustainability is always a consideration. I then start with the planning, keeping in mind the goals established in the concept and the client’s brief. Once the planning is making sense, the architecture comes into play. I like bold, sharp forms, in combination with honest material palettes that speak to each other.

Which elements of a building's design do you feel are most important?

For me it always comes down to making a difference, experientially, socially, environmentally, constructability and innovatively. While the entire project may not allow for all these boxes to be ticked in an immediately obvious way, I try to incorporate them in every moment of the project, the detail, material choice, occupant experience etc.

What is your favourite aspect of the CORNERBLOCK project?

Firstly, working with the client, Ben. He is incredibly intuitive, open to innovative ideas, and really leaned into the sustainable aspect of the build. The whole process, from concept to completion was a huge learning experience I wouldn't have had the opportunity to experience without his hands-on and collaborative approach, it was truly a pleasure and I am very grateful.

Secondly, this was perhaps the first building project that really achieved the full design intent it started out with in concept, I think this is in part due to a similar design taste and prioritising sustainability between Ben and myself, but also the valuable input and excitement of everyone involved. Every consultant, contractor and supplier saw the potential behind this build and really went the extra mile for it. It was an amazing experience being part of such a strong collaboration.

Got more questions for David? Reach him via email, david@shapestudio.com.au

Sarah Chan
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