OBITUARY: BLAIR GARDINER

Obituary: Mr. Blair Gardiner

It is with deep sadness that we acknowledge the passing of Mr. Blair Gardiner, a founding member of ArchiTeam Cooperative and a long-serving lecturer at the Melbourne School of Design (MSD).

Blair was a passionate advocate for small practice architects and a driving force in shaping ArchiTeam during its formative years. Serving as a Director from 1999 to 2007, he played a pivotal role in growing the cooperative into an organisation that now supports over a thousand architects across Australia. His vision and dedication to fostering collaboration, professional growth, and a sense of community among architects leaves a lasting legacy within the industry.

Alongside his contributions to ArchiTeam, Blair was a highly respected educator who shared his expertise, wisdom, and enthusiasm with generations of students at The University of Melbourne – Melbourne School of Design (MSD). His guidance and mentorship inspired countless emerging architects to pursue excellence, creativity, and innovation in their work. Blair also served as an examiner for the Architects Registration Board of Victoria (ARBV), where he helped shape the next generation of registered architects through his commitment to rigorous professional standards.

Blair’s commitment to architecture extended far beyond teaching and advocacy. He was a generous mentor, a supportive colleague, and a valued friend to many within the profession. His influence is deeply felt across both academic and professional communities, where his passion and generosity touched the lives and careers of so many.

Our thoughts are with Blair’s family, friends, colleagues, and the many architects whose paths he shaped.

He will be dearly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Image: Blair Gardiner - Melbourne School of Design