The 2009 Nielson Design Lecture will be the first of an annual, 3-year program of keynote talks that will allow internationally renowned architects and designers to present on their work, ideas and methods around the theme ‘Designing for the Future’. The speaker for the inaugural Nielson Design Lecture is Michael Sorkin. Sorkin’s groundbreaking international work, ongoing practical and critical work on cities, and green approach, captures the vision and ambition that South-East Queensland has for its built environment, public spaces and urban policies.

Michael Sorkin combines world-class strengths in design, research, theory and education and has been an important voice in exploring the social, formal, and environmental character of the city. He argues for the inextricable connection between design and social engagement and his practice has special interest in the city and in green architecture, which aligns with both the State Library of Queensland’s and Nielson Properties’ environmental approach.