Published 27 Feb 2026
S5. Ep 1. Talking with Jesse Lockhart Krause about Reimagining Bondi Surf Club and Designing with Community in Mind
Season 5 is here, and we're kicking off with a big one!
I'm joined by Jesse Lockhart Krause, founder of Lockhart-Krause Architects, to talk about the redevelopment of the iconic Bondi Surf Club, the oldest surf club in the world. Since we first planned this chat, Bondi experienced a tragic event that shook the community. Jesse was there that day, and while our focus is on architecture and leadership, we briefly acknowledge the resilience of the local community and lifesavers.
We unpack how Jesse secured approval for the redesign after two failed DAs by separating heritage from new architecture, introducing a courtyard concept, and genuinely listening to the community, achieving approval without a single objection. We also dive into growing an architecture practice, hiring for character, and why listening may be the most powerful leadership skill in the built environment.
Takeaways:
- ✅Reimagining an iconic heritage building the right way
- ✅Securing community approval in a tightly held precinct
- ✅Designing with people, place and purpose in mind
- ✅Growing an architecture practice with strong foundations
- ✅Why listening beats ego in leadership
Chapters:
- 12:40 - The Importance of Real World Experience
- 18:43 - Skills Beyond Degrees
- 23:34 - Mindset and Endurance in Life
- 24:50 - The Importance of Exercise and Community Engagement
- 26:23 - Bondi Surf Club: A Historical Perspective
- 29:03 - Architectural Challenges and Community Needs
- 30:29 - Tragedy and Community Resilience
- 34:35 - Navigating Feedback in Architecture
- 36:59 - The Art of Balancing Design and Functionality
- 49:39 - The Role of Community in Architecture
- 55:54 - Growing a Business in Architecture
- 01:01:22 - The Future of Architecture and Industry Trends
Tune in for an honest conversation about architecture, resilience, and what it really takes to design with community at the centre.
Hope you enjoy the podcast!
#ArchitectureAustralia #BondiSurfClub #UrbanDesign #HeritageArchitecture #CommunityLedDesign #ConstructionLeadership #BuiltEnvironment #SydneyArchitecture #PeoplePlacePurpose #BuildingTalksPodcast
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