manma profile...
MANMA is a landscape architecture studio
MANMA's work ranges in scale from private gardens on the north coast of NSW to golf course developments throughout Asia
The tools employed are drawing, computer graphics, and on-site experimentation
The decision process evolves from exchanges with clients, architects, consultants and the site itself, resulting in places that reflect real needs and desires
We consider the unique aspects of each site, from its soils, water, and bedrock geology, to its plants, people, and land-use history. In this way our designs capitalize on a site's resources to demonstrate ecologically sound alternatives
Because we build much of our own work, we are sympathetic to considerations of schedule, program and budget
We understand the need to be responsive during the construction process, in case the site reveals features that can be incorporated into an improved design
Pool designed by Manma. Garden designed and constructed by Manma.
people
The directors of MANMA are Darren Mansfield and Donna Mack. The MANMA studio was formerly situated on the banks of the Never Never River in the Bellinger Valley near Bellingen on the NSW North Coast, where waterfalls and rainforest inspired our work. We have now adopted the urban lifestyle and can be found at Elizabeth Street Sydney www.hboemtb.com.au
Darren Mansfield Bachelor of Landscape Architecture UNSW. AAILA
Darren has worked in the landscape Industry for 25 years. Before commencing studies he was working with his father on such famous water features as the El Alamein and Archibald fountains in Sydney, and ever since Darren has always aspired to be actively involved in the process of construction of the landscapes he designs, to ensure that each work is the best it can be.
He has been involved in projects in Australia and throughout Asia. He has experience in design development, construction, project management and supervision to completion of a diverse range of landscape and golf projects.
He has lectured in Environmental Horticulture at the University of Western Sydney and has broad experience in horticulture, with a particular expertise in Australian rainforest plants through his directorship of Belltrees Nurseries, and as the author of "Australian Rainforest Plants For Your Garden". Mount Annan Botanic Garden Series. (published by Simon and Schuster 1992).
Donna Mack B.App. Sc. Systems Agriculture UWS
currently studying for MBA UNE
Donna has worked in both public and private landscape design and construction projects.
Donna has developed strengths in community and client consultation in the process of bringing about the completion of community projects. These projects also required co-ordinating and liaising with multi-disciplinary project teams and managing public relation activities.
Donna’s expertise in rapid rural appraisal, catchment management and community consultation have led her to a position of strength in the management of landscape projects. She also has a keen eye at the detail level of design, and is experienced in developing design solutions within budget constraints.
Our Golf Course Architect, Les Watts, is based in Hong Kong and Macau. Les is a qualified Architect who began his career in golf with the design company of five-times British Open champion Peter Thomson (Thomson Woolveridge and Perret). Les has been responsible for design work on courses throughout Asia, including Thailand (Royal Chiang Mi), Indonesia (Jagowari G&CC), Malaysia (Redang Island Resort), projects in Japan, China, and in Australia, where he was born.
He worked on the Bernhard Langer endorsed Lotus Hill Golf Club in Panyu, China, and has been working with David Hemstock (www.golf-design.demon.co.uk) for several years on projects in India and China. These include Shenzen Noble Merchant GC, Shenzhen; Jingdu GC near Beijing, and Hiannan Cassia Beach Golf Resort on Hiannan Island, China; and a 9-hole extension to the The Macau Golf Club.
A brilliant draftsman, Les has the ability to quickly visualise graphic master plan options for evaluation, and to carry through the detailed design and documentation work backed by years of experience. As well as golf course architecture, Les is responsible for Manma building design activities in Asia. Presently we are collaborating with Les on the Shun Feng Golf Club and Hot Springs Golf Club, both in Beijing, and the Xanadu Ecological Resort Community in nearby Inner Mongolia.
Manma project manager, Robert Staude was previously with the Australian Embassy in Germany working throughout Europe in the diplomatic service. He is also a former professional football player in the German League. He cut his teeth in the management of large groups of people whilst working with SOGOC during the 2000 Sydney Olympics. His love of sport, infectious good humour and his Germanic thoroughness, have been invaluable on our projects where the co-ordination of large quantities of plant material and human resources has been required.
Robert is based in Cologne for part of the year, and Bellingen at other times.
