David Collett, an architect whose influence on Canberra's development was profound, left an indelible mark on the city's landscape and its people. Born in Wollongong, Collett's journey began in Perth, where he studied architecture and honed his craft. His wit, humor, and cheeky personality, as recalled by high school friends, were traits that defined his approach to life and work.
Collett's career took a significant turn when he joined the National Capital Development Commission (NCDC) in 1981. Here, he became part of a dedicated team of architects, including Paul Reid, Colin Stewart, Rodney Moss, and Greg Deas, under the leadership of Commissioner Tony Powell. This period was characterized by rigorous creativity and a focus on innovative solutions, with Collett making notable contributions to the parliamentary area's design, the Museum of Australia's site selection, and housing and educational buildings.
His collaboration with renowned architects like Darryl Jackson, Ken Woolley, Philip Cox, and Col Madigan further solidified his reputation as a leading architect. After the NCDC's dissolution in 1988, Collett transitioned into private practice with Peter Freeman, forming Freeman Collett Architects. The practice's portfolio included notable projects, such as My Café in Manuka, which earned the Canberra Medallion from the Australian Institute of Architects.
A pivotal moment in Collett's life occurred when he moved to Sydney in 2002 with his partner, Pierina, and their daughter, Bella. Here, he played a crucial role in shaping the master plan for Parramatta city centre. His ability to bring together developers, architects, politicians, and planners made him a respected leader in complex projects, as evidenced by his work with Purdon Associates on town planning and development projects in Canberra.
Collett's impact on public housing was particularly significant. He joined the Department of Housing and Community Services in 2004, where his architectural expertise was instrumental in rehousing thousands of public housing tenants displaced by central Canberra's redevelopment. His pragmatic approach to urban design and strong sense of social justice in the built environment were hallmarks of his work.
Despite his diagnosis with Parkinson's disease in 2017, Collett faced the illness with grace and dignity, supported by his family and friends. His legacy extends beyond his architectural achievements; he was remembered as a brilliant, passionate, and charismatic individual who brought intellect, wit, sarcasm, and charm to every conversation. Collett's passing in 2026 marked the end of a remarkable life, leaving behind a lasting impact on Canberra's built environment and the lives he touched.
