DiscoverBuild BeautifulEva-Marie Prineas - Sustainable Architecture: Why the Most Radical Design Act Is to Build Less
Eva-Marie Prineas - Sustainable Architecture: Why the Most Radical Design Act Is to Build Less

Eva-Marie Prineas - Sustainable Architecture: Why the Most Radical Design Act Is to Build Less

Update: 2025-09-17
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Eva Marie Prineas is proving that sustainable design doesn't mean starting from scratch. As founder of Studio Prineas - a female-led, B Corp certified practice, Eva Marie's made her mark by breathing new life into existing structures rather than bulldozing them. In our conversation she reflects on the entrepreneurial path of building a practice rooted in sustainability, responsibility, and design depth.

Her approach? Honour what's already there while creating something genuinely future-focused. From residential renovations to commercial projects, Eva Marie's team specialises in thoughtful architecture that goes beyond just using eco-friendly materials - it's about cultural and emotional responsibility too. This conversation explores heritage-sensitive design, building with restraint, and why Australia's architectural future lies in respecting its past.

Key Takeaways:

  • Restraint as a Design Principle: Eva Marie underlines the significance of restraint in architecture, emphasising that building less is often more impactful.
  • Sustainability Beyond Materials: Sustainability is woven deeply into architectural practices, encompassing mindset, usage, and environmental responsibility.
  • Heritage and Reinterpretation: Heritage design isn't about replication but creatively reimagining and respecting what already exists.
  • Guiding Principal: A well-considered plan is fundamental as "the plan doesn't lie," with comprehensive forethought ensuring functionality and beauty.
  • Cultural Connection: Eva Marie shares how her rich cultural upbringing and personal heritage deeply influence her work, creating spaces that resonate with history and contemporary needs.

Notable Quotes:

  1. "The most important thing we can do is build less." - Eva Marie Prineas
  2. "Restraint is a design principle." - Eva Marie Prineas
  3. "It's not trend-driven, it's very much about there's meaning behind it." - Eva Marie Prineas
  4. "Sustainability is a mindset, not just a materials list." - Eva Marie Prineas
  5. "The plan doesn't lie. Just get the plan right and the rest will come." - Eva Marie Prineas

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If you'd like to be on the podcast, or want to collaborate with Build Beautiful feel free to contact us on buildbeautifulpodcast@gmail.com.

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Eva-Marie Prineas - Sustainable Architecture: Why the Most Radical Design Act Is to Build Less

Eva-Marie Prineas - Sustainable Architecture: Why the Most Radical Design Act Is to Build Less

Build Beautiful