Whilst a lecturer in design in the Department of Architecture at the University of Melbourne I ran a summer school program for students that was outside the academic curriculum The program comprised a series of exercises designed in such a way that the tools students had learned for success within the faculty could not be brought to bear.

Architecture exists in three dimensions not two so presentation could only be in the form of accurate three dimensional models. The conventions that trap designers within two dimensional thinking, plans, sections, elevations, could not be used. There was no design brief in the form that students are trained to expect. Yet they were to produce a highly resolved and accurate design. This is one fourteen day exercise.

“The Smile of Truth”

There are things that even the wise fail to do,
While the fool hits the point.
Unexpectedly discovering the way to life in the midst of death,
He burst out in hearty laughter. - Sengai

Reflect on this poem and construct a space that illuminates the nature of creation. The elegance of this space is to permit creation to occupy its inhabitant’s undivided attention”

The problem then included a series of consideration to reflect upon, including the notion of creation as a constant reflection of a personal quest for knowledge. These problems were intended to crack the box. The results were spectacular and an exhibition was arranged for the whole faculty.