Infrastructure Sustainability Council welcomes Toby Kent as CEO

The Infrastructure Sustainability Council has appointed Toby Kent, a seasoned sustainability leader, as its CEO. With a background steeped in resilience, ESG delivery and sustainability from roles at PwC Australia, ANZ ban, and Melbourne’s 100 Resilient Cities program. Kent’s leadership is expected to further the council’s influence in driving sustainable infrastructure development across the region and lead the Infrastructure Sustainability Council’s ambitious agenda.

“I am honoured to join the IS Council at this pivotal time. The IS Council has had a transformational impact on the Australian and Aotearoa New Zealand infrastructure sectors,” says Kent.

DKO fosters growth with eighteen new associates across Australian offices

DKO has promoted eighteen new associates across its Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane and Perth offices, as they attribute its success to the strength of its team and its unwavering commitment to professional development. This move accentuates their commitment to nurturing talent and fostering a collaborative environment, where team members are encouraged to contribute to achieving outstanding architectural outcomes. The newly appointed associates reflect the dedication to professional development and excellence within its ranks.

“These promotions reflect our commitment to nurturing talent and recognising excellence within our team. Each of these individuals has demonstrated exceptional skill, dedication, and collaborative spirit – qualities that are at the heart of DKO’s success,” says Koos de Keijzer, principal at DKO.

Gensler expands leadership team to drive growth in the Asia Pacific Middle East Region

Gensler, a global design and architecture leader, has appointed Theresa Sheils as Co-Regional Managing Principal for the Asia Pacific Middle East (APME) region, where she will partner with David Calkins to drive growth. Sheils, who brings 27 years of experience from Gensler’s Washington, DC office, has managed notable international projects and is committed to sustainable design. This leadership expansion aims to improve Gensler’s influence in the APME region as it continues to shape transformative spaces and deliver exceptional outcomes for clients.

“I’m proud to be joining the exceptional Gensler team in Singapore and to continue exploring the incredible opportunities that this region has to offer,” said Sheils. “I look forward to building upon the momentum that David has started to continue driving success for our firm and delivering extraordinary outcomes for our clients.”

ClarkeHopkinsClarke grows leadership with new partners and senior appointments

ClarkeHopkinsClarke Architects has revealed the promotion of three new partners and several senior appointments. Stephanie Wan, an inclusive design expert, joins the Education team as a Partner, while community architect Ngaio Chalmers and vertical mixed-use design leader Teddy Chung have been appointed Partners in Retail/Mixed Use. New Senior Associates include Kai Cheong (Multi-residential) and Gaston Nogues (Mixed Use). Additionally, Yorta Yorta man James Gilliland has been named Associate – First Nations Lead. “This new role is supported by non-Indigenous Designing with Country leads established across the practice over the past seven years,” notes the firm, showcasing its commitment to capacity building and focus in this area.

Scott Carver rebrands as Studio.SC to ushering a new era of creativity

Scott Carver has officially rebranded as Studio.SC, signalling a shift in its more than 40-year history. The new identity, defined by the mantra “thinking in new dimensions,” represents the firm’s commitment to innovation, creativity and design. Studio.SC aims to improve its broad cross-sector work and engage clients, staff and future talent with a refreshed perspective.

The rebrand reflects the significant achievements across various sectors, including cultural projects such as the Sydney Opera House renewals and the Australian War Memorial’s new Southern Entrance, and highlights Studio.SC’s involvement in high-profile developments like the 30-storey commercial tower and hotel in Parramatta and the Hotel Indigo in Auckland. “The places that are made for the future won’t be formed by perspectives that live in the here and now,” explains Thomas Hans, Co-Managing Director.

This philosophy drives Studio.SC’s approach to delivering exceptional client experiences and impactful design outcomes. Studio.SC will celebrate its rebrand with a gala event at the Ivy Sunroom on 4 July, showcasing its dedication to pushing design boundaries and creating inspiring spaces.

GlobeWest Furniture celebrates 20th anniversary

Australian furniture brand GlobeWest is celebrating its 20th anniversary in July 2024, reflecting on two decades of creativity, innovation and dedicated team effort. Co-founders Stephen and Alan Mendel express their pride, expressing: “Celebrating our 20th anniversary fills us with immense pride and gratitude. It’s a testament to our shared vision, passion and unwavering commitment to crafting spaces that inspire and endure.” With a team that has grown from 10 to over 100 members, GlobeWest continues to expand its diverse product range and transform homes and commercial spaces. Head of Creative Keti Lytras adds: “Over the past decade, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing the evolution of GlobeWest. Working alongside our ever-growing product and design teams has been an incredible journey.”

Jua Cilliers awarded NAWIC NSW Executive Women’s Leadership Scholarship

Jua Cilliers, Head of the School of Built Environment at the University of Technology Sydney, has been honoured with the NAWIC NSW Executive Women’s Leadership Scholarship, Australia’s most generous scholarship for women in property and construction. Established in 2022, the $30,000 scholarship supports female leaders poised to drive industry change. NAWIC NSW President Georgia Coulston states: “We designed this scholarship to help the next generation of female leaders build the business acumen and skills they need to catapult into positions where they can drive change.” Cilliers’ award recognises her contributions to the field and aims to further her impact and expand career opportunities for women in construction.

Buchan announces 5 new principals and 8 senior promotions

Global design practice Buchan has appointed five new principals and eight senior promotions across its Australian and New Zealand studios. Buchan CEO Stephen Auld noted that these promotions highlight the growth and commitment to talent and diversity at Buchan, stating: “These individuals have made a notable contribution to Buchan through their design excellence, technical expertise, leadership and client service.” The principals bring extensive experience in various facets, including mixed-use, sports and hospitality, while the senior promotions reflect Buchan’s ongoing investment in leadership and emerging markets.

Sarah Kay appointed CEO of Woods Bagot

Sarah Kay has been appointed the CEO of Wood Bagot, effective July 1st, 2024. Kay – who has notably been with the firm for 25 years and served as a director for 15 – will lead the evolution of Woods Bagot towards total place design, highlighting its positive societal impact. “I feel compelled as an architect, and now as a CEO, to have a positive impact through our work,” says Kay. “As architects and place designers, we are perfectly positioned to have a positive influence on the world ahead of us. It is our responsibility to have a leading voice in shaping our cities and our places with a long-term, sustainable and socially responsible outlook. Woods Bagot is inherently collaborative, and I am excited and buoyed by the future that we can achieve by working together across our diverse skills and services across our industry.”

Plus Architecture promotes Michael McShanag to Director to drive Queensland’s growth

Michael McShanag has been promoted to Director at Plus Architecture’s Brisbane and Gold Coast studios, where he will co-lead with Director Danny Juric. With 20 years of experience in project management and delivery, McShanag has spearheaded multi-million-dollar projects, including government, residential, commercial and educational projects. As Queensland’s development accelerates ahead of the 2032 Brisbane Olympic Games, Plus Architecture aims to design and deliver legacy infrastructure and placemaking projects. Danny Juric praised McShanag’s capabilities, noting: “Michael has a track record of delivering exceptional results. Harnessing excellent communication skills and design acumen, he is primed to nurture industry partnerships and deliver the highest level of service and outcomes for our clients.”

Pamela Hinton joins One Space as Studio Director; New leadership roles at S&techs

One Space, the design arm of S&techs, has announced Pamela Hinton as the Studio Director for its Hong Kong office. With over 20 years of global experience in design, workplace strategy and sustainability, Hinton joins from a distinguished sustainable workplace solutions company. “One Space has long been recognised in the industry for its unique, in-depth approach to delivering bespoke, human-centric design. I am thrilled to join the team as we lead the way in delivering transformative and sustainable design solutions for our clients,” says Hinton. Additionally, Nicole Chan Barlow has been named the joint Business Development Director for Hong Kong, bringing extensive experience in client relationship management, while Kamlesh Malkani steps into the role of Regional Business Development Director at S&techs.

AJC Architects Appoints Monique Franklin as Studio Director – Creative Lead, Interiors

AJC Architects has announced the appointment of Monique Franklin as Studio Director – Creative Lead, Interiors. Franklin, who brings over twenty years of experience in interior design from Australia and Hong Kong, will oversee a team of 14 interior professionals at AJC’s Sydney studio. Known for her work on revered global resorts and hotels, Franklin’s appointment accentuates AJC’s commitment to growth and innovation. Lynette Apostolou, COO at AJC, commented: “AJC’s strategic growth trajectory in our Interior Design sector has been further solidified with the appointment of Monique Franklin as the new Studio Director – Design Lead. It is poised to steer AJC towards a future of design excellence and innovation.”

Populous Welcomes Kristin Gibbar as Chief People Officer and Announces New Global Holdings Board Members

Populous has welcomed the creation of a new Chief People Officer role, with Kristin Gibbar stepping into the position starting June 24. Gibbar, formerly Chief HR Officer at Black & Veatch, Amazon and Sun Microsystems, will be based at the America HQ in Kansas City. Earl Santee, Founder, Chair and CEO of Populous, stressed the importance of Gibbar’s role in driving global people strategies and enhancing talent management across the company’s 29 offices worldwide. Additionally, Populous has appointed three Regional Board members to its Global Holdings Board: Brett Wightman, Senior Principal for APAC, Declan Sharkey, Senior Principal for EMEA, and Scott Capstack, Senior Principal and Design Director for the Americas.

Carr announces next generation of leadership

Carr is excited to promote Stephen McGarry, David Brooks and Richard Beel to Directors, marking a pivotal step in the Carr’s trajectory. These leaders have been instrumental in shaping notable projects like 835 High Street, Como Terraces and Jackalope. “Alongside the unique and innovative design outcomes, the consistently successful delivery of each project from conception to completion is a testament to the talented team we have at Carr and what we will build on,” says Stephen McGarry. David Brooks adds: “I am very excited about continuing to develop projects with our clients centred around placemaking, craftsmanship and thoughtful resolution.” The promotion coincides with Carr’s move to a new Carr-designed passive building at 116 Rokeby Street in Collingwood.

Jessica Gombault takes the helm as Studio Director at Alexandra Kidd Interior Design

Alexandra Kidd Interior Design is thrilled to announce that Jessica Gombault has been elevated to the role of Studio Director. With 11 years of dedicated service, Jessica has been instrumental in shaping the studio’s projects, highlighting her passion for sustainability and commitment to excellence. The team eagerly anticipates this exciting new chapter under her leadership.

WorkArena becomes first sydney dealer for MillerKnoll

WorkArena, a leading Australian commercial furniture provider, has been appointed as the first Sydney dealer for MillerKnoll Inc. This partnership grants local architects and designers exclusive access to MillerKnoll’s renowned portfolio, including brands like Herman Miller, Knoll and Geiger, featuring iconic designs from Charles and Ray Eames and Florence Knoll. “We are thrilled to partner with MillerKnoll and provide the architecture and design community with access to these iconic products that have shaped the course of modern furniture design,” says Tim Dalton, Managing Director of WorkArena.

Laminex names Sacha Leagh-Murray as General Manager

Laminex has named Sacha Leagh-Murray as its new General Manager. With nearly seven years at Laminex and a distinguished 30-year career in sales, marketing, and cross-functional leadership within manufacturing, Leagh-Murray brings a wealth of expertise to the role.

Hassell promotes eight leaders to drive design innovation and diversity

Hassell has announced a series of new appointments, including eight internal promotions to its leadership team, aimed at reinforcing the firm’s dedication to design excellence and diverse talent. The newly promoted Principals are Minmin Long and Zoey Chen (Shanghai), Tanya Golitschenko and Liam Short (Brisbane), Susie Quinton and Tam Dao (Melbourne), Ben Rees (Perth), and Annabel Koeck (Sydney). Liz Westgarth, Managing Director of Hassell, commented: “These appointments highlight the vital contributions of our leaders in advancing our commitment to creating a better future through design and our broader purpose of creating places people love.” The promotions reflect Hassell’s investment in diverse perspectives and skills, crucial for delivering world-class projects and innovative solutions.

Next up: Book launch marks Tzannes’ significant Sydney legacy