Show Notes
This episode of Behind the Design features Troy Donovan, Principal Facade Designer at Prism Facades, whose work bridges architecture, engineering, and creative storytelling. From sketching in a notebook to leading large-scale projects with firms like Grimshaw Architects, Troy shares how facade design shapes the way we experience buildings, from the Sydney Opera House to the Australian War Memorial. He is based in New Zealand and leads his work from an office in Sydney.
In this thoughtful and grounded conversation, Troy opens up about his design process, the importance of collaboration, and how the smallest details can transform both a structure and the emotions it evokes. He reflects on the lessons learned through mistakes, the enduring value of sketching, and what it really takes to bring architectural visions to life.
Expect to learn: • How facade design connects creativity, functionality, and craftsmanship • The journey from industrial design to international architecture projects • Why sketching remains a powerful design tool in a digital age • What it takes to preserve heritage while innovating with modern materials • How mistakes and experimentation lead to growth and better design outcomes • Insights into the creative partnerships that shape landmark Australian buildings
Whether you are an architect, designer, or creative problem-solver, this episode will inspire you to see buildings in a new light and appreciate the artistry behind every facade.
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00:00:52 – Meet Facade Designer Troy Donovan 00:02:32 – From Industrial Design to Architecture 00:03:16 – Studying Architecture and Finding Facades 00:06:10 – Sketching the Path to Facade Design 00:08:11 – What a Facade Designer Does 00:10:18 – Collaboration in Architecture and Engineering 00:11:04 – The Art and Science of Facades 00:12:36 – Experience and Intuition in Design 00:14:19 – The Ideal Facade Design Client 00:15:14 – Creativity and Teamwork at Prism Facades 00:18:07 – Working on Global Architecture Projects 00:18:59 – Heritage Buildings and Modern Challenges 00:19:39 – Hidden Design and Accessibility 00:24:05 – Using Instagram to Share Design Insights 00:27:37 – Teaching Facade Design Online 00:31:51 – Lessons from Design Mistakes 00:33:36 – Turning a Design Error into Success 00:36:13 – Why Sharing Mistakes Matters 00:38:15 – Relationships and the Future of Prism Facades
* facade design * architecture podcast * building envelopes * Sydney architecture * design process * Australian architects * sustainable design * building innovation * architectural detailing * sketching for designers * creative collaboration * design storytelling * design education * design inspiration * Grimshaw Architects * Opera House design * Prism Facades
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