Wabu Gadun Bulmba Gurriny Mukanji Centre: A Case Study of Intercultural Design Practice

Abstract

In 2011 GudjuGudju Fourmile, elder of the Gimuy Walubara Yidinij people, asked me to work with him, as an architect, on the conceptual design for a facility for Indigenous people with acquired brain injury. I have been working with Indigenous people on projects since 1995, but this is the first time that I have worked as a sub-consultant to an Indigenous Design Manager. This is a critical change from being engaged by non-Indigenous organisations, or the Government, to provide services to or with Indigenous people. Being directly instructed and lead by Indigenous Construction and Training Company (ICTC) and guided by the Fourmile family has lead me to an experience of intercultural design practice; an experience full of new learning, excitement and challenges, patience and respect.