MMXX

A survey of the most influential, innovative and exciting Australian architecture of the past 20 years.

MMXX tells the story of architecture in Australia in the first two decades of the 21st century. Shaped by unprecedented prosperity, urbanisation, uncertainty and internationalisation, the past two decades have produced some of the most significant and diverse architecture in this country. This richly illustrated volume reflects on and evaluates this period, taking the reader on a journey through varying scales and locations – from ambitious city-making projects to finely crafted homes and elegant sheds nestled in the scenic countryside.

Showcasing 59 acclaimed projects completed between 2000 and 2019, the book features work by more than 100 practices. Turn the pages to experience the urban generosity of Harry Seidler & Associates’ Riparian Plaza in Brisbane, visit the irreverent and culture-shaping Museum of Old and New Art in Hobart by Fender Katsalidis, and explore ARM Architecture’s iconic Shrine of Remembrance on Melbourne’s grand axis. Highlighting the impact of the buildings, each is paired with a number that tells a story of occupation: capacity concert audiences, the number of babies born and large crowds gathered to witness moments in history. Alongside the key projects, ten essays by leading thinkers document the cultures and ideas that have shaped architecture today.

MMXX guides the reader through contemporary architecture in Australia, foregrounding its invaluable contribution to our built environment and inspiring an optimistic future.

About the Author

Cameron Bruhn is the Dean and Head of School of the School of Architecture, The University of Queensland. A writer, editor and curator, he is a regular contributor to numerous architecture and design periodicals and was co-editor of The Forever House (2014), The Terrace House (2015) and The Apartment House (2017), all published by Thames and Hudson.

From 2009-2018, Cameron was the editorial director of Architecture Media, Australia's leading cross-platform publisher and events organiser for the built environment community. Cameron was a co-creative director of This Public Life, the 2015 Australian Festival of Landscape Architecture and How Soon is Now, the 2016 Australian National Architecture conference. In 2016 he initiated the Asia Pacific Architecture Forum in Brisbane, an annual program that delivers citywide events and activities to a public and professional audience.