Congratulations are in order… Tim Ross has been awarded the National President’s Prize by the Australian Institute of Architects.

We know, we know, we feature and praise Tim a fair bit. But… his latest accolade does deserve the spotlight. It reminds us to pause and appreciate anyone working, in swell rumpus rooms or elsewhere behind the scenes, to promote and preserve Australia’s unique design culture.

In the words of the jury bestowing Tim with this prize: ‘Architecture needs champions: advocates who will embrace our campaigns for design – and its positive impact on communities, the environment and society – and amplify our voice to a wider audience.’

‘One of our champions is Tim Ross. A comedian, self-proclaimed design nerd, broadcaster and entertainer, Tim is one of our industry’s most passionate activists and champions. Not only has he raised the profile of heritage and design in general, he also promotes Australian architecture through his unique voice in popular culture,’ the jury citation continues.

‘He delved into modernist Australian residential architecture in the 2016 television show Streets of Your Town, highlighting its importance in contemporary culture and its precarious standing in planning codes. This was a passion project for Tim, who devised, wrote and hosted the two-part series. It was the most-watched arts program that year. His involvement expands the reach of the architecture profession to a much wider audience than we would otherwise be able to achieve.’

Props to Tim, and everyone else out there fighting the good fight!

Listen to our live podcast with the comedian/design nerd here. Find out more about the forthcoming shows as part of his MOTEL National Tour, here.