Chris Knapp has been appointed head of Bond University’s Abedian School of Architecture.
Knapp previously coordinated a range of architecture programs at the Abedian School of Architecture since its inception in 2011.
Knapp is the director of Studio Workshop, a practice that bills itself as working at the “intersection of design, technology, craftsmanship, and the built environment” combining conventional practice techniques with digital fabrication processes in residential and commercial works.
He was recently responsible for establishing and developing Western Sydney University’s first architecture program as its inaugural chair of architecture.
Knapp said, “The opportunity to lead a program that is so unique in the context of both Australian and international architectural education is exceptional,” he said.
“Bond’s program is highlighted by an innovative and professionally focused curriculum, world class facilities, a dynamic teaching team and incredibly bright, dedicated students.
“What I am looking forward to, more than anything, is connecting and collaborating with people. At Bond you get to know students incredibly well through an educational dialogue and, due to Bond’s small class sizes and studio-based pedagogy, you are able to help nurture inspirational architectural projects.”
Knapp was trained at the Universities of Michigan and Princeton in the USA, and has practised in Australia since 2005.
Derek Carson, executive dean of Bond’s Faculty of Society and Design, said, “Chris’s vision of a student focused architectural education working in partnership with industry
and other cognate disciplines is exciting and perfectly aligned with the Faculty’s translational approach to research and program design.
“The Faculty will undoubtedly benefit from Chris’s student-focused approach, his time spent in practice, and his leadership experience gained at Western Sydney University.”
Knapp will assume the role from acting head Michael Keniger in May 2019.
