5 Mins with John Ferres
Senior Associate John Ferres has been part of the Scott Carver team for an extraordinary and admirable 25 years – a role which started out as Project Architect. John’s journey at Scott Carver has included working on projects from residential and commercial design, through to retail and hospitality design, a variety which has kept him constantly engaged - funneling his broad design knowledge into creating spaces he can be proud of. For John, architecture is solution-driven, considering the needs of stakeholders on any given project. One of the major highlights from his time at Scott Caver has been working on the 2000 Olympic Games, which included working across a variety of venues, from the Main Press Centre, to the Aquatic Centre. We caught up with John to find out more about his journey, his personal motto and what success means to him.
Hi John, you’ve recently celebrated 25 years at Scott Carver. It’s a monumental accomplishment – how would you best describe the last 25 years?
Certainly, a time of tremendous growth in both a professional and private sense. Establishing a career and bringing up two beautiful daughters. A variety of project typologies across Australia and South-East Asia has kept my working life interesting.
Which projects that you have worked on, are you most proud of at Scott Carver?
Upon reflection, I think my work on the New Sydney Showgrounds, followed by the Sydney 2000 Olympics was intriguing and challenging, and resonated with the wider community, more so than an office block, or a shopping centre. Thousands of users were engaged with these outcomes, and the Showground continues to attract visitors from across Australia. The Residence luxury apartments at College Street, Sydney was the most complex project I’ve delivered, as it involved the renovation and re-construction of a 50-year-old office tower into high-rise city-centre apartments.
What tool, object or ritual could you not live without in your work day?
Google and my mechanical pencil with yellow trace. One for catching up on trends and information, and the other to instantly visualise architectural design concepts.
What has been a career highlight at Scott Carver so far?
I guess being heavily involved in the event that was the 2000 Sydney Olympics, which was a wonderful celebration for Sydney. Our work ranged across a variety of venues, from the Main Press Centre, Sailing Shore Base, Aquatic Centre and Sponsor Hospitality. It required diverse and innovative solutions, with absolute deadlines. So many Sydneysiders could relate to and experience these projects.
What brand values do you admire the most at Scott Carver?
A willingness to explore multiple paths to achieving successful design outcomes and also being willing to listen and engage with client and stakeholders, to achieve the right solution.
What’s your favourite thing about your workspace?
I like the fact that Qantas House is still relevant as a workspace, some 68 years after it was designed. Proof that well-conceived architecture can endure.
Has working for Scott Carver had influence over your style as an architect?
I believe that a continued presence during the construction phase has broadened my experience and understanding of architecture. I think that a considered synthesis of structure and architecture can lead to successful design solutions.
What is your personal and professional motto?
There is always an answer to any architectural challenge.
What does success mean to you?
A project completed to the satisfaction of all stakeholders.
Has learning from a mistake ever led to success?
One must always learn from mistakes, and hopefully minimise any repeats in the future.
Name the biggest overall lesson you’ve learnt since working as a Senior Associate at Scott Carver?
The answer will sometimes take time… but it will be there.
What’s the world need more of?
Humility and personal interaction.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
Enjoy time with my family. Read, listen to music, play golf and sometimes try to be a handyman!
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