Joining Envirotecture’s Talina Edwards and Andy Marlow – already announced as curators for next year’s conference – Vanessa Girling and Agatha Partyka have been appointed to bring fresh perspectives to the event’s planning.

“Girling and Partyka bring diverse perspectives shaped by varied pathways into practice, cultural experiences, and active engagement in advocacy and community-led initiatives,” says ArchiTeam in a media release. “Their appointments reflect ArchiTeam’s commitment to supporting emerging practitioners and ensuring the conference program is informed by a broad cross-section of the profession.”

An architectural associate and building designer, based between Bundjalung/Byron Bay, NSW and Meanjin/Brisbane, Queensland, Girling has over 13 years of industry experience. Currently completing her Master of Architecture, her work is grounded in sustainable, community-focused design and an interest in environmental psychology. Her recent international study experience in Singapore has informed a growing focus on regenerative design and the role of architecture in supporting both human and environmental wellbeing.

Partyka, on the other hand, exemplifies the wide national focus of the organisation, based in Lutruwita/Tasmania and currently establishing an independent practice. Her work explores the relationship between neurodivergence, spatial experience and equity in the built environment. She brings experience in curating cross-sector conversations and contributing to national discourse on inclusive practice, including her involvement with EmAGN Tasmania and Parlour.

The 2027 conference will be shaped around the thought provoking and timely theme dis-comfortable, inviting the profession to ask: Can we thrive beyond comfort – in practice, in place, and in ourselves?

Edwards and Marlow say, “Comfort has long been a benchmark for good architecture and good practice. But the world is asking something different of us now. Being comfortable with discomfort is central to growth – personally, professionally and planetarily.”

A key focus of the conference will be how architects, particularly those in small practice, can build viable, values-aligned businesses that support wellbeing, longevity and meaningful impact, rather than burnout or survival mode.

The theme will be explored via three interconnected pillars:

• personal – architects’ inner worlds, health, resilience and capacity
• professional – small-practice realities, business models, financial resilience and collaborative futures, and
• planetary – architecture’s impact, responsibility and regenerative potential.

Fleshing out those lenses, Edwards and Marlow will now have the fresh perspectives of the two emerging architects to join in their brainstorming.

ArchiTeam adds, “Together, Girling and Partyka contribute valuable insight into the evolving realities of early-career practice, including the transition from education to practice, the challenges of establishing independent pathways, and the opportunities to reshape the profession through new modes of thinking and working.”

Thinking about joining ArchiTeam?

Membership and insurance renewals commence Wednesday 29 April. Insurance coverage applies from 31 May 2026 to 31 May 2027 each year. 

Access:
– competitive professional indemnity + public liability insurance
– CPD, workshops + events (live CPD is free, as part of your 2026 membership)
– member resources, templates + tools
– a supportive national community

For more information, visit ArchiTeam’s website.