29. The Art & Science of Facade Design: How Troy Donovan Shapes Iconic Buildings

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 buildingsWhether 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.Follow Unfolded:https://www.unfolded.com.au/https://www.instagram.com/unfolded_00:00:52 – Meet Facade Designer Troy Donovan00:02:32 – From Industrial Design to Architecture00:03:16 – Studying Architecture and Finding Facades00:06:10 – Sketching the Path to Facade Design00:08:11 – What a Facade Designer Does00:10:18 – Collaboration in Architecture and Engineering00:11:04 – The Art and Science of Facades00:12:36 – Experience and Intuition in Design00:14:19 – The Ideal Facade Design Client00:15:14 – Creativity and Teamwork at Prism Facades00:18:07 – Working on Global Architecture Projects00:18:59 – Heritage Buildings and Modern Challenges00:19:39 – Hidden Design and Accessibility00:24:05 – Using Instagram to Share Design Insights00:27:37 – Teaching Facade Design Online00:31:51 – Lessons from Design Mistakes00:33:36 – Turning a Design Error into Success00:36:13 – Why Sharing Mistakes Matters00:38:15 – 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