Author(s): Philip Goad

Architecture & Interiors

Historically, the phrase "going troppo" came into prominence in World War II. It meant to be "heat affected", one went "off", a little mad in the heat of the tropics. This is the story of two architects who "went troppo", but in doing so, found another state. For them it meant becoming acclimatised, not going "off" at all, but understanding the place. "Going troppo" was revealing - even enlightening - and it would provide the basis for a new practice of architecture in Australia's Northern Territory.