Canberra architecture student Andrew Parish has been awarded the prestigious Alastair Swayn Internship.

Mr Parish is a Masters of Architecture student from the University of Canberra. He originally comes from Nhulunbuy in the Northern Territory.

Mr Parish will use the internship to research ‘Modular Design for Environmental Optimisation’, looking at the environmental benefits of using prefabricated components that are manufactured off-site and then assembled on-site during construction.

“Mr Parish has been very interested in modular architecture since he started his Bachelor degree,” said Mick Gentleman, ACT Minister for Planning and Land Management. “I know Mr Parish is very excited to be able to explore this topic in a more formal way through the Alastair Swayn Internship.”

ACT Government Architect Catherine Townsend will mentor Mr Parish.

“The annual Alastair Swayn Internship program is an excellent program for up-and-coming architects from the University of Canberra’s Masters in Architecture program, and I congratulate Andrew Parish on receiving this year’s internship,” Ms Townsend said.

When he completes his assignment, he will also receive a $2,500 research grant from The Alastair Swayn Foundation, which includes the opportunity for publication.

“I look forward to seeing Mr Parish’s final research findings from this rewarding internship, and am sure they will contribute to better building outcomes for the ACT, nationally and internationally,” Mr Gentleman said.

The Alastair Swayn Internship Program is a joint initiative between the ACT Government, the University of Canberra, and the Alastair Swayn Foundation. It honours Professorial Fellow Alastair Swayn’s contribution to the ACT as the first ACT Government Architect and founding partner of the multi-award-winning architectural practice Daryl Jackson Alastair Swayn.

“The ACT Government committed to this internship program to support young, emerging architects in honour of Alastair’s many contributions as they investigate topics related to the physical, environmental and social effects of growth in Canberra,” Mr Gentleman said.

“Alastair left a significant legacy in Canberra both as an extraordinary architect and in his role as the ACT’s first Government Architect,” Ms Townsend said. “Every year, I enjoy the opportunity to continue that legacy by mentoring interns, who invariably have exciting ideas that will contribute to public benefit not just in Canberra but across Australia.”