Who are we
S P U N, which stands for ‘Small Practices Upper North’ was one of a number of networks of architects established under the mantle of the Australian Institute of Architects NSW Chapter. The networks are gatherings of local architects who meet regularly to discuss current ideas and issues affecting aspects of architectural practice and to acquire Professional Development Points as required by the Board of Architects for the renewal of architectural registration.
The networks continue to focus on small practices by providing social and professional support amongst those architects practising in a specific geographic area. As the networks have grown and evolved, the membership base has broadened and strengthened with many meetings attracting students, architects from larger practices, academics, and professionals from related fields.
S P U N is one of the biggest networks comprising over a hundred members throughout the Upper North District of Sydney and has expanded to include members from the outer Sydney regions and architecture students.
What we do
SPUN holds monthly meetings at the Roseville Golf Club from 6.30-9.30pm usually on the third Monday of each month, from February to November. Speakers who are well-respected experts in their field are invited to talk on a variety of contemporary issues affecting the profession. Meetings follow a strict format that include the sponsor’s product and service promotion, the speaker’s talk, followed by an interactive segment with the audience and culminating in a dinner which opens the opportunity for the audience to network with their peers.
At its meetings S P U N provides a base for architects to attain Continuing Professional Points requirements.
Within its first year of operation, interest in the group from product suppliers and manufacturers was turned into sponsorship to subsidise costs of venue hire and catering. The product information sessions by sponsors update practices on current technologies, available materials and services available in the market place.
Speakers (link) invited to address members included many well known architects and industry professionals providing a variety of opinions on issues of design, professional conduct, administration, sustainability and legal issues.
SPUN in the Community
S P U N also involves itself in community activities (link) by funding of exhibitions, architectural projects, and charitable causes.
In 2012 SPUN launched its inaugural Architecture Awards Competition to coincide with the Sydney Architecture Festival.
The competition was open to SPUN members and registered architects of residential, commercial, ecclesiastical, new build, restoration and alterations and additions, which may be large or small in scale,that showcased a high level of creativity, innovation and craftsmanship, and exemplified excellence in terms of functionality and environmental sustainability
In 2011, SPUN was the major sponsor of the Unseen Dupain exhibition held at Tusculum, AIA, comprising iconic images of architecture photographed by renowned Australian photographer Max Dupain. The exhibition was opened by His Excellency Michael Bryce AM KE.
In 2010 SPUN was the major sponsor of ’20 Ku-ring-gai Houses’ at the State Library of New South Wales, an illustrated catalogue featuring the works of well-known architects that practiced in the North Shore.
In 2013, SPUN will sponsor three major projects: an exhibition on the history of the Catholic church in Wahroonga which was then dubbed ‘The Vatican City of the North Shore’, the refurbishment of the William Booth House for the Salvation Army and The Rotary Club of Sydney and the refurbishment of facilities for A House with No Steps.
Why we do it
To unify and raise standards of the profession;
to promote public awareness of the profession;
To establish a network whereby an individual’s skill can be communicated and shared, and
To do good for the benefit of the community.