Sydney School of Architecture, Design and Planning welcomes new Professor of Architecture

An accomplished architect, historian, and academic, Professor Deborah Ascher Barnstone joins Sydney from University of Technology Sydney, where she was previously the Head of School of Architecture. She has held academic positions at Washington State University, Ball State University, Fachhochschule Cologne, and the Boston Architectural Center.

Professor Ascher Barnstone holds a PhD in architectural history from the TU Delft, a Master of Architecture degree from Columbia University, and a B.A. cum laude degree from Barnard College. She is also a licensed architect and principal with Ascher Barnstone Architects.

As a historian, her primary research interests lie in early 20th century German and Dutch art and architecture and early modernism. Her design practice explores resilient and sustainable approaches for the climate crisis, with recent projects tackling bushfire-resistant architecture in the NSW South Coast.

In her new role, Professor Ascher Barnstone will lead the school's vibrant culture of studio teaching in architecture and bring new perspectives to the School’s established research in histories of the built environment and architecture.

“There were several things that attracted me to the Sydney School of Architecture, Design and Planning; the excellent quality of the university and its programs; the storied history as the first university and first architecture program in Australia; and the amazing colleagues in the School,” says Professor Ascher Barnstone of her new role.

“I am excited to become part of the first-class intellectual environment at Sydney; to become part of a university that values robust scholarly debates and original and creative thinking; and aspires to be world class in every endeavour.”

Professor Ascher Barnstone's appointment has been welcomed by the Dean of the School of Architecture, Design and Planning, Professor Robyn Dowling

"Professor Ascher Barnstone brings to the University of Sydney a wealth of expertise that will be invaluable to our faculty and students. Her extensive experience in both academia and practice will help us to continue to deliver world-class architectural education and research."

Professor Ascher Barnstone's appointment will commence from 31 July 2023.