Fellow Interview: Michael Smith of Andever

Nikkie Chia had an in-depth conversation with architect Michael Smith, founder of the award-winning practice Andever, to explore the many facets of his career in architecture. They discussed his journey from designing innovative, people-focused spaces to his decision to run as a Councillor for the City of Melbourne. Their conversation highlighted the dynamic relationship between design and public space, uncovering how thoughtful architecture can shape communities and foster meaningful connections. Michael also shared insights into the challenges and opportunities of balancing creative work with civic leadership, as well as his vision for a more inclusive and sustainable urban future.

You’ve had a fascinating journey from architecture to running for Councillor at the City of Melbourne. Can you share with us a little about yourself, such as where you grew up, what motivated you to become an architect and finally a candidate with a vision of transforming Melbourne into the world’s most inclusive and family-friendly city? 

I grew up in Mulgrave, a suburb southeast of Melbourne, and went on to study architecture at Deakin University. Initially drawn to design during high school, it was at university that I truly discovered my passion for architecture. The discipline fascinated me because it touches on so many aspects of life—science, art, politics, geography, and culture—all combined into one holistic profession. After completing my studies, I worked for six years in small-scale developments, learning the ropes of architectural practice before deciding to establish my own firm. 

Running my practice for the past decade has broadened my perspective on architecture. Beyond designing buildings, it’s given me opportunities to write for publications, engage in advocacy, and participate in various community-focused initiatives. Architecture, to me, is not just about creating spaces—it’s about contributing to the wider civic landscape. I believe architects have a duty to help shape the future of our cities, which is why I’ve taken a broad approach in my work, extending beyond traditional design into activism and urban advocacy. 

My decision to run for Councillor for City of Melbourne stems from a desire to improve the way planning decisions are made. Too often, I’ve encountered frustration when designs are scrutinised by people with little understanding of architecture’s complexities. Inspired by figures like Philip Thalis, who’s had great success advocating for better design in Sydney, I decided to channel my architectural experience and civic responsibility into campaigning for a more inclusive, family-friendly Melbourne. I believe architects can have a powerful impact in shaping cities, and I’m committed to making that vision a reality. 

You have done miraculous acts with the community, protecting the Royal Park near Ross Straw Field which was green space almost permanently lost to East West Link 10 years ago. What has driven you to take such a generous action? 

I believe it's crucial to stand up for our green spaces because proposals like the East West Link come from politicians who often aren't informed by the best policies or urban planning principles. Too often, these ideas are driven by short-term political gains, like building toll roads, without considering the long-term impact on cities. Since the 1970s, we’ve known that getting cars out of cities is key to their success, but many politicians aren't focused on this. 

As architects, we have a responsibility to lend our expertise to communities when these challenges arise. That’s what we did with the East West Link, standing alongside various community groups to oppose a plan that would have cut into Royal Park. The project was incredibly close to happening, but thanks to collective action—ranging from peaceful protests to more direct methods like delaying work—the government ran out of time to finalise the project. 

The outcome was a victory for Melbourne’s green spaces. Today, Ross Straw Field is a thriving area for sports and biodiversity, with wetlands that would have been severely impacted by the toll road. Looking back, it's incredible to think that we essentially "reversed" a potential environmental disaster and preserved this valuable space for future generations.  

You’ve launched initiatives like Melbourne By Design and supported policies such as Postcode 3000 to reinvigorate Melbourne’s creative industries and optimise the use of CBD buildings. Could you share your vision behind these initiatives, and how they intend to transform the future of Melbourne?  

I think it’s really important to explain how this campaign process works. To run as an individual in Melbourne City Council is almost impossible; you need to be part of a team for any real chance of success. Most people won't take the time to fill out a ballot below the line, so I started Melbourne By Design with the intention of putting an architect on council. Initially, I planned to have my wife as my second candidate, even though that role would have little chance of success. 

However, just before submitting my nomination, I received a call from Jamal Hakim, a sitting councillor who has done great things for the city. He invited me to join his ticket as the number one candidate. This was a pragmatic move to achieve my goal of getting elected, and it aligned perfectly with what I was trying to achieve with Melbourne By Design. Jamal's ticket has a fantastic team, including Esther Anna Tolitos, who has an amazing background in arts and urban planning. Joining them felt like the right decision. 

Regarding our vision for a family-friendly city, I believe that many policy objectives around health, well-being, and connectedness are rooted in our built environment. If we create better streets that are accessible and green, then they become accessible for everyone. If a street is safe for kids to run around, it’s safe for everyone. My focus is on making Melbourne a place where thoughtful design contributes to community welfare and connectedness. 

You’ve had a long and varied career in architecture, from running your own practice at Andever to writing columns on urban issues. Could you tell us about a project that you feel particularly connected to, and how it has influenced your approach to both architecture and urban policy?  

Throughout my career in architecture, I've always felt a deep connection to my projects, viewing them as my professional children. Each one is a reflection of my values and aspirations, and I strive to make them the best they can be. However, I find it challenging to single out one project that has been particularly influential in shaping my approach to architecture and urban policy. Unlike some who may have had a once-in-a-lifetime project that encapsulates their vision, my career has been more about humility and focus on smaller-scale, meaningful work. 

Many of my projects have involved working within modest budgets for clients who often invest their life savings in renovations or creating a home. This responsibility reminds me of the importance of separating our professional worth from the projects we undertake. As architects, we must remember that our identities and values extend beyond our work. While it's crucial to dedicate ourselves to our craft and produce quality designs, our worth shouldn't be solely defined by the success of our projects. Ultimately, I believe that maintaining this perspective enriches both our professional lives and the communities we serve. 

Reflecting on your journey so far—both in architecture and public service—what advice would you give to younger architects or students who are passionate about making an impact through their work?  

Reflecting on my journey in architecture and public service, my advice to younger architects and students is to recognise the profound impact our profession can have on communities and society. Architects are inherently passionate about creating change; we don’t just build structures—we shape environments and experiences. While not everyone will design landmark buildings, even smaller projects can significantly improve the lives of their occupants, making a tangible difference in the community. 

However, individual projects can only create limited impact. For instance, if a single architect designs five houses a year, that’s only a small fraction of the thousands of homes built in a region like Victoria. Therefore, it's crucial for architects to broaden their focus beyond individual designs and engage with policy-making and collective action. By advocating for policies that mandate quality in design, we can achieve systemic change that extends far beyond our own practices. 

Ultimately, I encourage young architects to think holistically and collaboratively. By working together and contributing to larger conversations about urban development and community needs, we can create a more significant impact that resonates throughout our cities and fosters a better built environment for everyone. 

Looking forward, what are some of the key changes or initiatives you’d like to see implemented if you’re elected as Councillor? How do you envision Melbourne’s built environment evolving in the next decade under your leadership?  

Melbourne is currently facing significant challenges, and I believe many alternative candidates are not steering us in the right direction. If I’m fortunate enough to be elected alongside Team Hakim, one of my top priorities will be completing and expanding the bike lane network. Protected bike lanes not only enhance safety for cyclists but also create safer streets for everyone. Alongside this, we need to upgrade our streets to be greener and more pedestrian-friendly, transforming them into vibrant spaces where people want to gather, not just pass through. Better streets that are accessible to children also benefit everyone—if a street is safe enough for a child to run around or for a pram to navigate, then it's accessible for all. 

I’m also focused on advancing the Postcode 3000 policy, which aims to revitalise low-quality, vacant office towers. My vision is to repurpose these spaces for creative businesses and grassroots artists, fostering a resurgence of creativity in Melbourne. While significant investments are being made in high-profile venues like the National Gallery of Victoria’s contemporary art gallery, we must ensure that emerging artists receive the support they need to thrive in our city, rather than just featuring established names. 

Additionally, as we prepare for the Westgate Tunnel project, which will increase traffic in residential areas, proactive measures must be taken to mitigate its impact. I am committed to protecting green spaces, such as Royal Park, from encroachment while also exploring opportunities to expand parkland where feasible. By taking a proactive stance rather than a defensive one, we can work towards preserving and enhancing Melbourne’s unique built environment for future generations. I truly believe that there is a deep connection between health, community well-being, and the built environment, and I’m dedicated to fostering that connection in my role as Councillor. 

Finally, is there anything else you would like to share with us, especially regarding your campaign or your thoughts on the intersection of architecture and public service? 

As I conclude, I want to encourage our profession to expand its perspective on acting in the public interest. Too often, architects confine themselves to a project-based mindset, which limits our engagement with broader societal issues. Architectural practices are designed for efficiency in project delivery, making it challenging to navigate opportunities that fall outside traditional project frameworks. 

I believe we must rethink our role in public discourse and decision-making, especially in light of the historical detachment many architectural institutions have maintained from politics. These peak bodies have often remained politically neutral, but this approach can hinder their effectiveness when policies affecting the built environment arise. When these organisations only engage after policies are established, they miss the chance to influence discussions meaningfully. 

For the relevance of our profession to persist, it is crucial that architectural bodies actively involve themselves in shaping public policy. For example, when proposals emerge for significant projects like Royal Park that require expertise in landscape architecture, organisations must be proactive in supporting these initiatives. By doing so, they can advocate for better built environments that serve the public good, ensuring that our profession not only adapts to change but also helps shape it. 

If you are interested in learning more about Michael and Andever, you can check out their website. To learn more about Nikkie Chia, head to his CO-architecture Professional profile.