Richard Leplastrier

Richard Denis Leplastrier He grew up in Perth, Hobart, and then Sydney. He graduated from the School of Architecture, Design and Planning at the University of Sydney in 1963. In 1966 he travelled to Japan to study at Kyoto University under Tomoya Masuda, and worked in the office of Kenzo Tange. ==Career==

Architecture Leplastrier worked in the Palm Beach boat shed office of Jørn Utzon from 1964 to 1966, on a number of Utzon's designs for homes for his family plot at Bayview on Pittwater, which were never built. The house has no glass, and no windows. He has worked extensively with the Sydney Harbour Federation Trust, helping to ensure that the public lands around the harbour remain "accessible, protected, and valued for their natural and cultural significance". His work is greatly influenced by his work with Kenzo Tange, Jørn Utzon, and Australian artist Lloyd Rees. Academia Leplastrier was a professor of practice (architecture) at the University of Newcastle until 2019, a role shared with other prominent architects. ==Selected works==

• 1974–1976: Palm Garden House, Bilgola Beach, Sydney • 2004–2006: Georges Head Lookout, Mosman, Sydney (in collaboration with landscape architect Craig Burton) ==Recognition and awards==

According to architect Peter Stutchbury in 1999: "It is not possible to summarise Richard Leplastrier's contribution to architecture because it extends beyond the built work. He is an educator, craftsperson, facilitator, and inspiration to all who meet him". In October 2025, he was awarded the Bettison & James Award at the Adelaide Film Festival. This award is given to an individual "whose lifelong work has benefited the Australian community". Legacy At the 2020 NSW Chapter AIA Architecture Awards the Palm Garden House at Bilgola Beach was presented the New South Wales Enduring Architecture Award. ==In film==

The film Richard Leplastrier: Framing the View is a 2020 feature-length documentary film about Leplastrier, directed by Anna Cater. The film premiered on ABC Television on 12 May 2020. It was also shown in the Adelaide Film Festival at a special free screening, as part of the presentation of the James and Bettison Prize, along with a forum. ==Personal life==

Leplastrier lives a reclusive life at his one-roomed home. In 2000 (when filming of Framing the View started), his three children were 8, 12 and 15 years old. Influenced by Japanese houses and style of living, the family ate and slept on the floor. ==References==