Commissions

MARLINSPIKE undertakes commissioned sculptural work where there is alignment around intent, process, and responsibility. Projects typically begin before form is defined and develop through close collaboration with architectural, design, and delivery teams. The studio works primarily with educational institutions, civic facilities, and campus environments, where sculptural systems must perform alongside architecture over decades.

Engagement is structured to support clarity early and confidence through delivery.

How Projects Begin

Commissions typically originate through one of the following pathways:

• Direct commission by a client or institution
• Collaboration with an architect or design team
• Inclusion within a broader development or public project
• Invitation through a curated or limited tender process

Regardless of entry point, all projects follow the same staged framework.

Initial Engagement

Initial engagement focuses on framing intent rather than proposing form.

This stage may include:

• Understanding site conditions and constraints
• Clarifying project context and objectives
• Identifying users and patterns of movement
• Establishing experiential and functional priorities

This early framing ensures the project begins with shared understanding before design direction or cost is discussed.

Concept Development

All commissions commence with a paid concept development phase.

This phase establishes:

• Conceptual direction and narrative
• Spatial and material logic
• Feasibility within the anticipated scope

Concept development is treated as a professional service and forms the foundation for all subsequent stages.

Fabrication pricing is not provided prior to this phase.

Progression to Delivery

Once a concept is agreed, projects may proceed through design development, engineering, and fabrication as required.

Progression is informed by:

• Project complexity
• Stakeholder and consultant requirements
• Risk, coordination, and delivery considerations

Each stage is confirmed before moving to the next, ensuring clarity and accountability throughout.

Suitability and Alignment

MARLINSPIKE undertakes a limited number of projects at a time to maintain focus and quality.

Projects are best suited where there is:

• Respect for process
• Commitment to early clarity
• Understanding of integration with architecture and site
• Willingness to engage collaboratively

Past and current commissions include work for schools, colleges, and multi-purpose campus buildings in Queensland. Not all enquiries progress to commission.

Enquiries

Initial enquiries should include:

• Project context and location
• Anticipated scale or budget range
• Timeframe
• Key stakeholders

This information allows for an informed discussion around suitability and next steps.

Commissions are approached as long-term contributions to place, developed with care, discipline, and clarity.

MARLINSPIKE Studio is based in Brisbane, Queensland. For initial enquiries, contact office@marlinspike.studio or call 0411 834 140.