Meet Tanya Golitschenko winner of the 2022 Emerging Architect Prize
Tanya Golitschenko has been shaping the future of urban transport since joining our Brisbane studio in 2019.
A skilled architect and leader, Tanya says the motivation to create better and more inclusive spaces has come from her five-year-old daughter, Florence, who was born with hearing loss.
An advocate for equity and inclusion and a respected mentor to her team at Hassell, Tanya’s contributions to architecture and the community have been recognised by the Australian Institute of Architects, Queensland Chapter, through the 2022 Emerging Architect Prize.
“Tanya has crafted a respected career in transport infrastructure projects, actively helping to shape the city and facilitating widespread accessibility in Brisbane’s public spaces while simultaneously promoting the representation of young women in design and construction,” said the AIA jury.
Architecture has equipped Tanya with the technical and creative skills to navigate complex, city-shaping projects. But the inspiration to improve transport experiences and create more inclusive and accessible spaces comes from her daughter, Florence.
“I think to be a good designer, it takes empathy, understanding and connection. And I definitely learned those skills when I became a mum.”
“Having a daughter with hearing loss has helped me to understand Florence’s particular challenges and has made me recognise the challenges others may have as well,” says Tanya.
While leading the Cross River Rail RIS team in Brisbane, Tanya strongly advocated for equity and accessibility, creating a legacy of inclusive design. She championed design in a client-facilitated programme to engage with community representatives to better understand their needs at train stations. She also spoke to organisations spanning Deaf Services, Vision Australia, Braille House, Guide Dogs Queensland, Blind Citizens Australia, Choice Passion Life, and other independent representatives.
This ground-breaking research and community consultation programme resulted in the design for equitable access and inclusive movement and communications across the Cross River Rail RIS network. When completed, the outcomes will be transformative for the community.
“We can be confident these soon-to-be complete train stations will provide greater opportunity and possibility for people to access more in their lives, whether it’s visiting friends, going to work, or sporting games,” Tanya says.
“Now a broader spectrum of the population can feel confident in turning up at a train station and travelling on public transport. I think that’s a fantastic outcome.”
Beyond championing better outcomes in the built environment, Tanya has channelled her passion for wildlife conservation into a decade-long involvement with the Redland’s Koala Action Group. Using her skills to inform planning and environmental policies, she has worked to protect and improve Koala habitats in her local area.
A role model, supporter and mentor of younger staff, Tanya also plays an active role within Hassell’s Gender Equality and Staff Development leadership groups, alongside her industry role as Co-Chair of the National Association of Women in Construction’s (NAWIC) Education and Mentoring team.
Congratulations, Tanya, on your far-reaching impact.