People

As Hayball expands into new markets throughout Australasia, Tom champions the importance of supporting clients competitively and creatively. His key interests are in architecture and urban design, and the commercial acumen with which he leads the practice infuse Tom’s strategic and design leadership of large scale architectural and urban renewal projects.

Tom invests in understanding the full breadth of a client’s business objectives, whatever that business is, and regards this as integral to a holistic approach for the thoughtful and sophisticated design outcomes he sets the standard for.

“Distilling all sorts of competing interests and turning that into a creative response is no mean feat, there’s no room for complacency. Design takes planning, tactics and strategy, too, and it’s our job to make sure all the parts line up. It’s a fantastic feeling to create good design, to make a positive difference in how people experience a place or space.”

He’s always wanted to be an architect, and continues to be excited by the profession’s capacity and responsibility to create outstanding places. In advocating for architecture’s contribution to urbanisation and the public realm, Tom has served as a chapter councillor and on award juries for the Australian Institute of Architects, and on design review panels for state government.

An accomplished and influential communicator, Sarah’s passion lies in advocating at all levels for great design and successful places.

With her interest in exploring the future form of our cities, Sarah is at the forefront of the feasibility and design of large-scale residential and mixed use developments, and leads urban design and major renewal projects including the masterplanning of new communities.

“Architecture is a profession that requires both creative and strategic thinking. I get a lot of enjoyment in finding ways to embed real value in projects by designing well-crafted architecture which is commercially viable and marketable, and which also has those elements that will bring delight and functionality to the people who inhabit and use those spaces.”

Her scope of influence extends to broader industry and government where she has helped shape planning policy through successful negotiation and advocacy, and her expertise is regularly sought for government advisory panels and strategic urban projects.

Within Hayball, Sarah’s mentorship and championing of workplace diversity and flexibility are advancing the professional opportunities and development of our staff. Her investment in Hayball’s organisational structure and culture ensures that our people are valued and supported as they develop their careers.

Richard has always had a great respect for teachers. The seeds of an architectural career were first planted by his grade-five teacher. “I still remember him talking about architecture and, from that point, there was nothing else I was interested in pursuing.”

The learning experience of thousands of school kids is all the richer for it. With over 30 years’ experience in Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom, Richard’s expertise in helping schools integrate modern education philosophies into the design of new educational facilities is unsurpassed.

Providing design leadership to support contemporary models of learning, Richard champions collaborative and research-driven design, and regularly collaborates with leading education design specialists. A Past Chair of Learning Environments Australasia (A4LE), whose mission is to improve the places where people learn, Richard continues to be actively engaged with the association at regional and international level.

With experience across a variety of projects from shopping centres to aged care facilities, stadiums and sporting complexes through to bespoke homes, Luc is a driving force in the success of the firm’s technically demanding institutional and large-scale residential projects. Formative years in the construction industry forged a strong understanding of how to practically apply the theoretical and it’s this that makes Luc’s contribution to projects invaluable.

For Luc, a project’s success hinges on a holistic approach ensuring the uncompromised essence of the original design vision. Achieving the robust and sculptural design within budget constraints, the award-winning redevelopment of Carlton’s Canada Hotel into student accommodation remains one of his proudest.

“Client satisfaction, adherence to budget and achieving positive outcomes are critical. It’s always a balancing act, but good design is always at the heart of the process.”

Currently running multi-residential projects in Melbourne and Brisbane, Luc is also responsible for the practice’s internationally-certified quality management system. And he exemplifies our practice ethos, honouring the generosity of colleagues, in their time and sharing of knowledge and experience.

“At Hayball, a project is never about one person. It’s always a team effort.”

David’s early education was influenced by four engineers in the family but it was architecture that beckoned, allowing creative expression to combine with acute analytical skills and a lifelong passion for making and constructing things. It’s with these attributes that David leads sustainability and construction innovation across Hayball’s design platform. He’s also heavily invested in Hayball’s design culture, distinguished for its methodical and highly collaborative, research-based enquiry.

David’s deep expertise is across an uncommon diversity of projects which extends across urban design, civic buildings, schools, universities and multi-residential student housing.

“Projects where we’re transferring knowledge and research across typologies, these are what I’m fundamentally attracted to, and where projects – largely because of their complexity, but also because of new procurement models – demand a highly coordinated and integrated approach, I’m very good that.”

A clear and influential communicator, David is highly adept at assimilating multiple viewpoints to distill what will provide the most benefit to end users. He leads cross-disciplinary teams in the delivery of projects involving complex governance and stakeholders, including the award winning Library at the Dock (with Clare Design) and La Trobe University’s Eastern Campus Redevelopment.

As a child in Hong Kong fascinated by the models in her architect uncle’s design firm, Ann was hooked early on architecture. With an abiding interest in how design quality at every scale can shape and enhance human relationships, Ann is a versatile designer who loves nothing more than pushing the boundaries of traditional typologies with dynamic and integrated solutions.

“I’m very interested in hybridisation, where buildings are not fixed to a single use but reflect the diversity of how our cities work, allowing them to function for the future.”

Working from within, she is also heavily invested in Hayball’s design culture and the structure of an entire project team to draw out the best from our people. Teaching design and leading design studios over many years instilled the fundamental importance of how we work – it’s a structured, disciplined approach that underpins technically exquisite and confidently executed design.

“Clients work with us because they know we listen deeply, that we’re interested in uncovering commercial opportunities and in intelligently shaping our built environment. Interpreting a client’s ambition and turning it into something much more than feasible alone – seeking a long term legacy, I enjoy that immensely.”

Tapped on the shoulder when he won the Australian Institute of Architects’ student prize for outstanding design work, Eugene joined us a graduate. Exemplifying the support for career progression at Hayball, he’s now a Director playing a pivotal role in the early stages of new projects, where his ability to swiftly uncover a site’s possibilities dovetails with his strong design talent.

Born in Singapore, Eugene speaks Mandarin which he learned at school. It’s a skill that helps him to work directly and comfortably with international clients, whose needs he understands well from his cross cultural experiences.

“The Australian property landscape can be challenging for a lot of foreign developers and investors. They’re trying to get their heads around what works and what doesn’t work. They’re also becoming more creative and to me it’s very exciting to work together to find the point of difference that will set their development apart.”

Eugene distils design, commercial planning and technical information and makes it readily clear, working with clients in a continual dialogue throughout all stages of a development. The conversation can go late into the night, and often over a whisky.

“The question that excites me most is, ‘what could it be?”

“Above all, I’m energised by the collaborative process, where ideas come together and make something quite special.”

Bianca leads Hayball Interiors – a team dedicated to designing elegant and marketable schemes that stand the test of time. Having worked as an architect for developers in integrated design and development, she has an acute business acumen and relishes the challenge of balancing requisite time and cost restraints with quality design outcomes.

Turning a concept into reality and for it to be more than just a building is one of her greatest satisfactions. Human-centred design, liveability, beauty – these are her primary considerations in making spaces feel as good as they look. Her experience across all phases of the architectural process is invaluable; she understands an entire building and how everything fits together.

A natural communicator, Bianca invests in lasting relationships for ongoing client-designer collaborations, with a deeply held creed to understand clients well to know what’s suitable for their projects. She approaches each new project with an involved briefing process and remains dedicated to a project’s needs as it unfolds, faithful to the end.

“For me there tend to be two types of leaders in architecture: those who are singular in their work ethic and creative vision, and those who in the same way bring excellent design skills, leadership and technical knowledge but also look to collaborate and nurture the best in others. I honestly believe there is no right or wrong in either approach, but I consider myself to be one of the latter.”

With a natural affinity for managing large and complex projects, David is an accomplished project leader. He plays a pivotal role in client liaison and skilfully leads projects and teams with a communicative approach that is clear, organised and collaborative. He is passionate about driving innovative solutions which add value and create better outcomes for all stakeholders.

David has a keen interest in materiality with a focus on the use of timeless natural materials which he combines with an ordered approach to spatial planning and a high degree of technical understanding of how to design and make buildings.

“A project’s success is not only about great design, it’s also about knowing the figures and knowing how to combine both into simple solutions.”

With a deep understanding of residential planning and design from more than 35 years’ experience, Len’s encyclopaedic knowledge of residential markets remains central to our value as designers today.

Before forming Hayball in 1983, Len was the managing director of Gunn Hayball Architects, a firm renowned for the design of innovative housing across a variety of densities and dwelling types. In the 1990s he was at the forefront of the rise of interest in Melbourne’s inner city housing, when former industrial buildings were earmarked as potential housing sites, and projects such as the Riverside Apartments foreshadowed inner urban renewal and significant changes in housing trends.

Len has also been pivotal in shaping the ongoing commercial viability of the practice. He spearheaded Hayball’s employee share ownership scheme, aimed at boosting the firm’s resilience during tough economic times, and has been a mentor to many at different points in their careers.

“I’ve always enjoyed collaboration and relationships where there’s a confidence in each other. It’s important that our collective expertise is passed on to others, giving people opportunities to develop as individuals and to contribute to our culture of quality professional service.”

Dr Fiona Young is an architect and researcher in the field of learning environments. Her research focus is on learning environment affordances that support deep and playful pedagogical practices. Conducted through the Innovative Learning Environments and Teacher Change (ILETC) project at the University of Melbourne, Fiona’s PhD research identifies strategies to support teachers in recognising and using the affordances of innovative learning environments.

As Studio Director at Hayball in Sydney, her focus is on Education and GLAM (Galleries, Libraries, Archives, Museums) sector projects. Core to her role is enhancing learning opportunities through design and interpreting and bridging understanding between educators and architectural teams. Fiona has extensive experience in integrative briefing processes, workshop facilitation and master planning. She has developed a number of successful community consultation strategies, engaging leadership teams, staff, students and broader communities as co-designers in the project process.

Fiona is a co-author of the book Integrative Briefing for Better Design. She is a sitting member of the Government Architect NSW State Design Review Panel and has held previous roles on global and regional committees of the Association for Learning Environments and also as NSW Chair of Learning Environments Australasia.

“I’m always contemplating the lived human experience and bringing it to the forefront of architectural and urban design. It inspires what I call ‘creativity with purpose’.”

David’s design talent and management potential were recognised since he first joined Hayball as a graduate. After several years honing his skills overseas, he returned to take up a leadership role in Melbourne. With expertise in large scale multi-residential, hospitality and mixed-use projects, he skilfully manages design teams and complex stakeholder interests to provide outcomes that are creative, intuitive and value conscious.

David designs projects that respond to their context, taking inspiration from and responding to their climate, surroundings, history, and site conditions. He is also excited by design thinking that enables a project to reach beyond its immediate location and influence its surroundings and the architectural conversation in a broader context.

When it comes to Hayball’s design ethos, David is an enthusiastic advocate and contributor. His holistic leadership style is key to achieving the truly collaborative conversation that exists between studios and within project teams. Whether it’s a design workshop, special project or competition, David works closely with design leaders to strategically drive and promote initiatives across Hayball’s design processes and culture.

“There’s an energy generated between colleagues when we’re drawing and resolving a design. Crafting beautiful forms and spaces, exploring new technologies, and bringing unknown possibilities to the design is always very exciting.”

Thomas is an accomplished project leader with over 10 years of professional experience designing mixed-use, retail, multi-residential projects. A sought after architect for bespoke private and large-scale residential properties across Australia set him on a trajectory to investigate ‘new ways of living’. He is at the forefront of next-generation of purpose-built student accommodation and championing alternative housing models; both characterised by a holistic approach to building sustainable communities.

“That’s my attraction to multi-residential work, to instill that level of individual care and personal material detail to each dwelling and these new modes of living that balances societal needs with commercial realities. Exploring these new residential models advances Hayball’s pursuit of uncovering sustainable visions for authentic placemaking.”

Thomas’ work includes numerous pioneering residential projects including at: La Trobe St student accommodation; one of the tallest prefabricated towers in the world, Melbourne Connect and Little Hall at the University of Melbourne, and Assemble Communities’ new and largest development in Kensington.

“I love the refined simplicity of an idea discovered and distilled through a rigorous design process.”

Graham treasures the breadth and scope of experience that have opened to him through architecture. From the early days of his career, he embraced the challenges and opportunities to meet and learn from so many people, to stretch himself, to be creative, and to rethink conventions. Graham’s area of special expertise is within the field of education design, and his passion for the ever-evolving pedagogical landscape, master planning, libraries, and re-lifing projects is unparalleled.

Founded on his ability to listen, a deep love of collaborative design, and an enthusiasm for holistically sustainable ideas, Graham’s approach reflects Hayball’s commitment to innovative design solutions, technical expertise, strong client relations and industry leadership. Graham drives the discovery process that fuses pedagogical aspirations with architecture to collectively deliver new teaching experiences and assist clients in the transition to learner-centred environments that emphasise learning rather than teaching.

Greatly respected for his ability to truly understand a client’s needs and aspirations. Endlessly fascinated by the culture and context of projects and how best value can be realised, he relishes constructively challenging convention and developing narratives and designs of deep meaning.

In the studio, Graham is a generous mentor, culture-focused and inclusive. His knack for invigorating others with genuine enthusiasm actively champions a collaborative mindset and inspires design thinking, knowledge-sharing and connection.

Wei is a dynamic architect with local and international experience, working across a wide range of typologies including commercial, education, high-density masterplanning, transport orientated mixed-use developments, senior living, and hospitality projects. He drives innovation through research-led design and with a strong appreciation of commercial building parameters, Wei’s methodical and creative approach ensures the most effective business and design performance outcomes for clients.

“Wei has a comprehensive understanding of the value of knowledge capital within an increasingly demanding design service industry. Wei’s advocacy for design intelligence is instrumental in achieving high-quality outcomes for clients and project stakeholders.”

With an emphasis on collaboration, Wei is a leader within Hayball’s growing workplace, seniors living, hospitality and integrated mixed-use portfolio, as well as delivery of informed contextual designs for large-scale complex projects.

“I tend to think of myself as a facilitator of excellent design. I’m a firm believer in surrounding myself with talented people to harness the energy that collaborative creativity generates.”

An appetite for good architecture runs through Harry’s veins. He was only four years old when he drew his first floor-plan and elevation, and by seven he was helping his architect father build project models, back when balsa wood and cardboard were as close to virtual building modelling as one could get…

Harry has been an enthusiastic member of the Architectural industry for more than two decades and has worked on both sides of the construction contract; project managing built work for contractors as well as leading large architectural teams in design, documentation and administration of landmark projects across residential and educational sectors. Harnessing the practice’s large-scale delivery expertise and combining it with a refined knowledge of contemporary education design, Harry is instrumental in leading major programs and multiple-site projects.

Generosity of knowledge and managing professional development is something Harry believes is paramount to a healthy practice and fostering strong relationships. He provides leadership across strategic resourcing and facilitates our professional mentoring strategy to support and promote excellence in project management and delivery to achieve exemplary design.

What’s buildable? How can we deliver that? In boundary-pushing design, Rob’s technology skills make all the difference.

“I give designers options when approaching design problems, and help tackle problems with tools and methods – because it’s not one size fits all. I love working with large teams on complex projects, bending the software and looking for the best outcome by thinking of different approaches.”

Rob is a specialist in BIM documentation and delivery. Coming from a tech-savvy family (his father was an ‘early adopter’ and pioneer of Australian electronic engineering), technology and IT are in his blood. And with equally strong interests in fine art and scientific endeavours, architecture is where his interests can converge.

Rob was instrumental in developing our Revit platform for optimal architectural application and as BIM Manager he directs the processes and management of BIM models throughout the office. He is a skilled architect with vast project delivery experience in a number of market sectors including multi-residential, education, retail and hospitality – it’s the combination of Rob’s detailed knowledge of the entire architectural process and technical dexterity that enables such a rich understanding of modelling requirements to efficiently produce a project’s deliverables.

With an intrepid spirit and strengths in management and executive leadership, architect Liza Ringdahl is the senior education leader in our Brisbane studio.

A motivated achiever, Liza has been a Telstra Women in Business Awards finalist and received numerous accolades for achievements in the construction industry, including the NAWIC Laing O’Rourke Crystal Vision Award in 2015. (She’s also classically trained in ballet and as a pianist to concert standard!)

Liza applies research and neuro-scientific principles in her passionate exploration of design to influence learning and working experiences. Her interest in neuroscience and the cognitive benefits associated with a ‘sense of place’ adds exceptional value to workplace design, and education design for improved learning outcomes.

“It’s clear that employers are keen for individuals with advanced problem-solving skills, quality communication skills, and entrepreneurial spirit. It’s incredible how influential the field of educational architecture can be, providing settings for rich learning experiences to nurture this development.”

One of Liza’s most important values is working collaboratively.

“The collective mind is more powerful than the single mind. Both in my design leadership, and as a people leader, I focus on helping people to get along, feel valued and trusted. Happy people are usually more productive and creative.”

Inspired by an article on education design by director Richard Leonard, Owen joined Hayball to pursue what has become his area of expertise in education masterplanning and design.

Education is a dynamic sector, subject to constant evolutionary change, and Owen thrives on the ongoing challenges that architects and education designers need to keep up with. Driving every project is his abiding interest in understanding how people relate to one another in a learning environment – and supporting those exchanges and interactions through design.

“Those exchanges and interactions really are at the heart of learning. I’m excited about unexpected outcomes – design solutions that meet our clients’ objectives but in exciting ways they may not have envisaged, because we speak their language and make sure we have a deep understanding of their pedagogy and needs.”

Renowned for the strategic planning and coordination of major education projects, Owen is an accomplished manager of complex consultant teams and diverse stakeholder groups. He is currently the senior project leader on South Melbourne Primary School, delivering a new model for a multi-level inner urban school integrating shared school and community facilities in Australia’s largest urban renewal precinct.

A senior interior designer with a signature ability to ‘lift the lid’, Miranda deftly uncovers a project’s real needs and objectives. The skill is in listening and observing for a deep level of understanding about what’s actually important, and translating abstract ideas into original interiors schemes with tangible benefits.

“Experience counts for a lot and in our process we make it work hard. Knowledge and precedent get us to a particular point rather quickly, which liberates you to really start exploring the unique aspects. This is the place where creativity has its opening, it’s not just repeating what you’ve done before.”

Energised by its social value, collaborative opportunities and the varied nature of her work, Miranda specialises in workplace interior design and education settings – early learning, primary and secondary through to universities. Notable for the shift towards activity based design, continual change and design challenges are part of the appeal.

“We desire to have things be as beautiful and robust as they can be but designing can be imperfect and messy. A lot of what we do is iterative, it’s to’ing and fro’ing in a continual conversation to expand the scope of what’s possible. It’s fantastic.”

A valuable member of Hayball’s senior leadership, Paris consistently demonstrates a strong, calm and considered leadership that fosters communication and collaboration. He invests time in creating positive working scenarios with both clients and colleagues, and builds solid ongoing relationships by investing time in creating an inclusive design process. A thoughtful and collaborative problem solver, Paris believes that the most successful built outcomes are the ones that clients own through their active and valued participation in the design process.

Delivering civic and education-focused buildings where design excellence and economic mindfulness go hand in hand is what drives Paris and allows his methodical approach to deliver optimal results. He is an accomplished project leader across a wide variety of building sizes and locations, steering large and complex projects safely to fruition. Recently, this included a number of important BER Government stimulus program projects.

Paris Demonstrates a generosity of knowledge sharing and inclusiveness; trusting and encouraging his team to develop their skill sets and aspirations. He also contributes a sound knowledge of cost effective construction, and rigour to consultant coordination within all projects he leads. He has broad experience in design documentation, urban planning and contract administration, ranging from residential developments to commercial, health and education facilities.

Paris also has experience in contract negotiations and preparation of documentation for a range of public and private organisations and bodies including Heritage Victoria and Development Victoria, experiences which have led him into a mentoring capacity within Hayball’s Melbourne studio.

Specialising in large urbanism, regeneration and masterplanning schemes, Rennie thrives on creating public places that surprise and delight. Typically, as on the Studio Nine Redevelopment Masterplan and University of Canberra Urban Plan, he gets involved early to establish design direction to achieve great place making opportunities.

Originally from London, it was during his early career on various English and European projects that he developed his curiosity for the spaces between buildings, where urban activation can be intensified.

“I’m excited by cities and their differences, culturally and socially. I’ve always enjoyed trying to understand what makes a good city and what makes a bad city.”

Rennie has developed an academic career in conjunction with practice and since 2005 has led design studios at the University of Melbourne. With a foot firmly in both teaching and practice, he is well connected to contemporary ideas affecting Australian urbanism and architecture, particularly those grounded in research.

Combining knowledge and passion, Rennie’s mastery of collaborative design produces unique outcomes that could arise nowhere else. This often means a departure from what a client knows, and one made with confidence because the design limits have been tested and the opportunities distilled.

Double degrees in Architecture and Property and Construction laid the foundations for a professional career steeped in knowledge of commercial construction systems, and expertise in delivering buildings where design excellence and commercial success go hand in hand.

Integrity infuses everything James does, who works with clients and consultants across all phases including development of design and detailing, through to delivery. His approach is simply to be fair and use every opportunity to improve a project’s design.

“Part of producing the best possible drawings and documentation is being reasonable in their interpretation with the builder. It comes down to advocacy for the project and advocacy for design through that part of the design process which continues through into construction.”

As a project architect, he flourishes with the challenge of taking an arbitrary idea and translating it into a buildable design. His ultimate satisfaction is the execution of a building on site, and he’s particularly proud of the award winning Canada Hotel Redevelopment for student accommodation, the Community Hub at the Dock and the 55-storey MY80 apartment tower in Melbourne’s CBD.

Accomplished in both design and delivery, Yuyuen takes project leadership to another level with consummate communication of design thinking and quality relationships with clients and consultants. A keen collaborator, she enjoys using a range of tools – hand sketches, 2D and 3D diagrams, visualisation and physical models – to explore a design idea and carry it through.

Yuyuen was lured to Hayball by our work in student accommodation and an office culture which is connected and supportive. Since joining us nearly 10 years ago, her talent and adventurous spirit have catapulted her across a range of projects: from schools, the masterplanning of town centres and large scale urban developments, medium to large scale residential projects, through to mixed-use community buildings – most recently the Community Hub at the Dock in Melbourne’s Docklands.

Yuyuen loves nothing more than to push the design edges in a crossover of typology.

“I bring knowledge from one sector and apply it to another. The challenge is to see a project with fresh eyes, and work with clients to find the balance between understanding their aspirations and guiding them through the possibilities for a good design outcome.”

The rapid advancement of science, technology and culture. The unexpected collision of ideas. These are what inspire Alex, a talented, forward-thinking designer whose signature is a willingness to bring fresh thinking to every aspect of practice. Unbiased by convention and with an aversion to taking the path of least resistance, what he’s very good at is the visual communication of design ideas, sketching and the rapid iteration of ideas in a rigorous pursuit of a successful concept.

It’s the job of good design to make people’s lives better but it doesn’t just appear – it’s a creative struggle to balance the constraints of budget, conditions and expectations which, for Alex, are all part of architecture’s attraction.

“Getting projects to work is about serving a broad mix of people and their interests, it takes mindful, sophisticated integration. I’m good at listening earnestly and constructively engaging everyone to question orthodoxy – all of those voices can have influence on the design process and ultimately the outcome.”

Embracing new technologies and tools that help manage the complexity of constructability and project delivery, Alex spearheads Hayball’s research and uptake of new software. With Rennie Liffen, he facilities a monthly staff forum exploring esoteric architectural questions. Ever the provocateur.

Heidi possesses over 15 years of in-depth architectural experience gained on projects throughout the United Kingdom, Singapore, New Zealand and Australia, bringing a unique scope, passion and range of knowledge to her work at Hayball that benefits every project she works on.

From an initial spark lit by an inspirational sculpture teacher who encouraged her passion for making objects and using materials, Heidi’s focus now reaches beyond design into driving, motivating, and developing people within project teams, a focus that allows her projects to achieve excellence in both design and construction, within tight time frames and budgets. With a natural affinity for the strategic management of project teams, Heidi engages meaningfully with people, fostering a collaborative, enthusiastic and determined atmosphere across her projects and the practice as a whole.

“I am passionate about engagement and inclusiveness within a project’s development. Collaboration enables essential and relevant contributions in a supportive and encouraging environment.”

Heidi relishes solving the challenges that go hand-in-hand with realising successful design outcomes and delivering optimal project outcomes. She has been instrumental in the delivery of a range of large scale, complex and award-winning buildings, which to date have focused primarily on higher education teaching and research facilities, as well as public, and mixed use urban regeneration projects. It is on these large and complex where Heidi really comes into her own, harnessing complex requirements alongside a refined design sensibility without compromise.

Some recent projects include The Charles Perkins Centre at the University of Sydney which delivered the first superlab in Australia; Tyree Energy Technologies Building at UNSW, the first 6 star Green Star laboratory building in Australia, and the striking Auckland Art Gallery – WAF winner Building of the Year.

Above all, Heidi is an accomplished and thoughtful problem solver with an innate ability to work through and around an infinite number of variables to swiftly and smartly provide resolutions that manage cost, client expectation and design intent elegantly, effectively and efficiently.

“I am drawn to the clever use of materials, whether they are creating strong dramatic forms, or delicate intricate details – making it all fit together as the brief evolves through design to construction is always exciting to be a part of.”

“Architecture is all about creative problem solving. Providing elegant solutions in an efficient and effective way is fulfilling to me personally and provides meaningful outcomes for the client and end user.”

Erin is an award-winning Architect whose enthusiasm for bringing human experience and scale to the forefront of architectural and urban design is realised via her comprehensive understanding of existing patterns of activity and spatial experience. She draws on a broad range of project experience gained across a number of typologies and sectors including commercial and mixed-use developments, leisure facilities, multi-residential developments, student accommodation and bespoke single dwellings as well as large and complex urban renewal projects.

Combining technical knowledge with creativity to bring a positive experience to end users and the public drives all Erin’s work. She takes pride in effectively and efficiently achieving high quality design outcomes that are also commercially viable. An influential negotiator in the management of complex consultant and stakeholder groups, Erin relishes the challenge of maximising project opportunities to produce positive feasibility and planning outcomes and designs that exhibit a focused understanding of form, space and aesthetic.

Erin is both passionate and thorough, qualities that allow her to effectively communicate and forge long-term trusted relationships with consultants, contractors and clients, designing spaces that respond to requirements as well as aspirations, enriching user experience, and evolving design ideas to fruition through meticulous attention detail, drawing, virtual modelling and research.

Erin’s field of special interest lies is at the intersection of design and development. While In New Zealand, Erin worked in a multi-disciplinary capacity, on projects that incorporated both architecture and property development. This time allowed her to gain a valuable understanding and insight into building projects from a developer’s perspective, and has proved immensely beneficial when working with developers, allowing Erin to utilise her understanding of the developer mindset, motivations and priorities.

A collaborative and approachable leader, Erin drives her team to exceed expectations. She is single-handedly responsible for reviving and re-launching the GROW program, developing, supporting and educating upcoming industry leaders within Hayball. She is an active mentor, providing a supportive framework that fosters career development in younger and emerging architects within the practice.

“Hayball has the friendly and personal nature of a small firm with the benefits and opportunities of a large national practice. As a parent I value the flexible work environment, and directors who support and model balancing a successful career with raising a family.”

“Architecture is a fascinating profession. It seeks to balance arts and science, the spirit and the body. The creation of good Architecture is the act of managing the two in equilibrium.”

With a philosophical approach mixed with pragmatic expertise in design management and project delivery, Yip optimises the buildability of multi-residential, mixed use and retail projects of all scales while ensuring their design intent remains intact.

Drawing on more than 15 years of in-depth architectural project experience across Melbourne, Singapore and China, Yip is passionate about unearthing innovative solutions which add value and create better outcomes for all stakeholders. He skilfully leads projects and teams with a communicative approach that is clear, organised and collaborative.

“Every project is different, every project is a prototype in itself, with the delivery calling for large teams. From clients, authorities, consultants, builders to internal project teams, optimising the intersection of good design and commercial reality is both challenging and rewarding.”

Yip plays a pivotal role in client liaison, with his inherent understanding and skill in facilitating engaging dialogue, he champions the needs of local and international clients alike. This invaluable proficiency allows his projects to progress seamlessly and allows Yip to provide key guidance to facilitate site procurement interests and give localised advice to international clients.

“I enjoy the process of bridging gaps and maintaining collaboration with all parties in the process of bringing a project together.”

A design-focused member of the Hayball leadership team, Kit’s work has won a number of prestigious awards including the Australian Institute of Architects NSW Architecture Award. Her work is pragmatic, bold and emphasises user-centric design. Her role within the practice as a leader and mentor, coupled with teaching positions at various universities, reflects the genuine interest and joy she has in developing emerging architects.

Kit is highly experienced in the design and delivery of large scale public and education projects ranging in value up to $250 million. She has led a diverse range of projects including schools, libraries, museums and joint use facilities. She is adept at building and developing strong rapport with clients and her expertise in complex stakeholder engagement ensures user-centric design is achieved.

“The process of co-creation is a strong part of my design methodology, the journey is just as important as the final creation. Especially on projects with multiple stakeholders, it is crucial to engage everyone during the process and get buy-in along the way. I approach design and leadership the same way, with open communication, passion, tenacity and a strong human focus. For me, it is always about the people, whether it be the client, the end user, the public, the learner or the team, it gives me great joy in knowing I can make a change.”

Kit is also a strong advocate for designing purposeful spaces both indoor and outdoor, to enable seamless and organic connection between the user, built form and the wider urban fabric.

“My strong interest in landscape design and horticulture allows me to extend the thinking beyond the architectural envelope. Architecture combined with landscape can tell a powerful story. Together they can provide a robust platform for learning, bonding and healing, and facilitate positive change to strengthen the social sustainability of our cities.”

“Poetry in architecture is not one to be overridden by practicality as buildings play a pivotal role in the intangibles of life. When buildings are completed, there is a continuance of poetry as dwellers call it their home – be it to live, work or play, and therefore I am driven to consider these user-oriented opportunities to create room for moments as we shape architecture”. 

Joining Hayball as a graduate in 2010, Jade cut her teeth working on various project typologies and scales under the guidance of our leadership team. She has developed strong technical skills as a design leader as well as the ability to safeguard all aspects of complex brief requirements and help drive the design to achieve positive, well-considered outcomes.

Jade has been invaluable in managing complex coordination between key stakeholders and external consultants throughout the design and construction phases. She is co-leading next-generation student accommodation projects including Melbourne Connect, Trinity College and 303 Royal Parade.

She plays a pivotal role within the practice, bringing a creative and dynamic approach to her work through thorough coordination and close collaboration with the wider team to ensure a project’s vision becomes a reality.

It’s one thing to visualise a design, and something else to make that reality. As an architect who bridges the two, Robert Mosca combines a strong sense of design, strategic thinking, attention to detail, clear communication and interpersonal skills in professional relationships.

Hayball architects stay on the job until a building opens, designing their way out of the issues that inevitably arise during construction. With a strong work ethic, Robert has always enjoyed the challenge of a problem – big and small – and logically working through it to resolution. In design, he has a perpetual appreciation of how the careful consideration of a space can make a difference to how people use and enjoy it.

“It’s what I do at, any scale – from the big picture right down to the detail of putting something together. I love that minor, barely-noticed quality of details can subconsciously change the way someone experiences a space.”

His is the thirst of a problem solver, quenched by collaborative investigation and the transformation of an idea into a tangible result.

“We’re constantly challenged by external forces, be they budget, expectations or politics. Pushing the design to retain the qualities we intended for it, connecting with builders, understanding cost implications and working with people – that’s the kind of challenge I enjoy.”

“Working it, and working it and working it until it works.”

The prospect of producing compelling design that excels in every way and does everything it has to do, internally and externally, is what sustains David’s enjoyment in architecture.

Having worked as a design manager for developers, as a developer himself and in architectural practice, David’s experience from different standpoints results in a keen appreciation of balancing project cost with high quality outcomes. His insight to commercial issues and the drivers from other parts of the development business gives him a unique understanding of how design can optimise other aspects of business such as sales and marketing.

He gets involved in a project’s early stages; much more than a site’s feasibility, David tests how well it can be made to work, making his contribution to projects invaluable. His strong belief in the value of an ‘inside out’ design approach means he keeps the people he’s designing for at the heart of the process.

“In human-centred, integrated design, the external form of the building is a servant to the internal function. When we get the inside right the building’s expressive exterior will become obvious.”

“Continually testing, evaluating and reinterpreting, my role is to shape clever design solutions that are both purposeful and robust to adapt with the changing education landscape.”

As she develops further as a project leader in the education sector, Marissa is excited more and more by the strategic side of design, and relishes negotiating the many drivers to be mediated in achieving a coherent result.

A genuine, straight talking and down-to-earth approach is Marissa’s signature style. Working closely with clients to fundamentally understand who they are, how they work and what they want, she thrives on working across all phases of a project where the end-to-end involvement affords the development of strong, trusting relationships.

“I’m truly excited by the fact that what we do can make a real difference in the lives of the students and their learning. I want to make sure that both students’ and teachers’ objectives are at the forefront of every decision, and that everyone in the room gets it.”

Marissa’s always been a designer – a maker, a crafter. Architecture is where her creativity comes together with considered thinking, problem solving – the pragmatic part of achieving strongly resolved, constructed outcomes.

“I’ve always enjoyed the process of unfolding puzzles, to me, creative problem solving lies at the heart of the design process.”

Kerlina joined Hayball in November 2013 and has, over the last five years, flourished as a Project Leader, Architect, Program Coordinator, Presenter and Mentor.

Establishing her expertise in education, Kerlina is an attentive and thoughtful leader who brings a real sense of method and practicality to her work. Her keen interest in understanding and fulfilling user requirements, means that Kerlina champions a genuinely collaborative approach to design – one that engages the client’s needs to develop design solutions which can be rigorously applied at all scales of a project for a well-coordinated and integrated outcome.

While always driving design and consultant teams with clear communication and a truly collaborative approach, Kerlina also possesses a rare ability to truly listen and help users identify their deeper needs and to understand social, cultural and historical values inherent in a place that inform and shape her projects in a way that inspires its users and wider community

Some of Kerlina’s notable projects have included the Footscray Learning Precinct, St Peters College, and Mooroopna Kindergarten, a collaborative pro-bono project that Hayball recently delivered for Save The Children.

Kerlina, is persistent in her pursuit of the best outcome on every project she works on and is absolutely committed to delivering above and beyond client expectations as well as ensuring a fundamental alignment with the aspirations of the wider team and her design ethics and ethos.

Relishing the challenge of working through complex issues in the resolution of well-considered and high-quality design responses, Kerlina provides a sustained involvement throughout all project phases, from initial client briefing and concept design to completion and post-occupancy. She leads design and consultant teams with a communicative approach that is clear, organised and collaborative.

Recognised for always finding time to share knowledge, answer questions and help others, Kerlina’s generosity and high care factor make her a truly invaluable mentor to our younger cohort.  Alongside her key project achievements, Kerlina successfully revamped Hayball’s Practice Makes Perfect Program to better support the learning and development of our graduate staff. This has received excellent feedback and an increase in numbers of graduates pursuing registration.

Laura is a talented architect with a special knack for creative problem solving. She has a wide breadth of industry experience working across a broad range of project typologies and scales. With a keen interest in delivering high quality and evolutionary education buildings where design excellence and economic mindfulness go hand in hand, Laura thrives on the collaborative process of navigating the relationship between space and learning pedagogies.

“I find it incredibly humbling helping to provide engaging spaces for students to learn. There’s nothing more satisfying then seeing a school community embrace and enjoy completed projects.”

Laura is known for her good judgement and planning, being equally experienced across all phases of a project from concept design through to implementation. Highly regarded for her excellent communication skills, Laura has developed strong and ongoing client and consultant relationships, confidently guiding clients and stakeholders in a genuinely collaborative and consultative manner, while always staying on top of a project’s finer details.

Laura’s special expertise is in spatial planning and detailing in education design. She relishes the opportunity to resolve complexities into successful built outcomes, and her careful consideration of the end-user experience of the space translates through her loyalty and commitment to producing impeccable work. Some recent notable projects include Newhaven College Senior School + Specialist Facility, Braemar College, St. Clare’s Catholic School, East Gippsland Trade Skills Centre, and Minaret College.

To further develop her skills as a leader in the architectural profession, Laura participates enthusiastically in industry initiatives, including the Property Council of Australia’s 100 Women in Property program.

“It is a joy to work at Hayball with so many talented colleagues who are willing to share their knowledge.”

A unique thinker, Andrew is an all-rounder with interests and skills the cover the breadth of the architectural practice. He is skilled in developing spaces to support learners by creating diverse, immersive and engaging environments.

“Seeing a project to completion and being able to make a difference to the user experience… We simply consider the needs of the user first.”

As a project leader, Andrew is involved in every phase of a project. He adopts early stakeholder engagement as a continuous thread throughout a project and understands the importance of developing and nurturing these relationships.

Andrew actively participates in industry events and recently has spoken at the  School Planning Design & Construction Summit 2019, School Infrastructure Summit 2018, and the Museums & Galleries Conference, 2017. Internally, Andrew has facilitated the Hayball GL(E)AM forums which focuses on leading a broader conversation on design within the industry and the wider community.

Prioritising the development of strong relationships with clients, user-groups and the larger design team, Natalia cultivates collaboration and innovative design outcomes.

Natalia has worked across a range of building scales and typologies. With each new project, she seeks to create spaces that are beyond the expected and can influence users and communities in a deep and meaningful way. Beyond projects, Natalia spearheads research initiatives within the practice and works with project leaders to develop tailored design solutions for Hayball’s clients.

“A well-designed environment can positively impact our health and wellbeing; stimulating creativity, enhancing social connection and inspiring healthier lifestyles.”

In 2019 Natalia is undertaking a Churchill Fellowship exploring best practices for designing child-friendly neighbourhoods around the world. Her winning proposal explores how the design of cities and built environments can contribute to the health and wellbeing of children

Oliver has an eye for detail which makes him instrumental to the planning approval phase of any project.

With experience in multi-unit residential, townhouse, community and office projects, he is a talented and multi-faceted architect, adding value through his urbanist approach. Oliver is interested in the design of purposeful architecture and environments that benefit client project outcomes, the urban environment and the people who experience it.

A tenacious team player in and outside the studio, Oliver captains the Hayball soccer team and led us to the Archisoccer Championships.

Jeremy possesses a rare skill; he can start with a blank sheet of paper and generate deeply considered drawings that captivate an audience and convey a clear design vision. His love for the arts and hand sketching naturally led him to the architecture profession.

“Each architect has a different approach to designing, so understanding how initial ideas evolve into built form – the creative process – and becoming a facilitator in this collaborative process is a key aspect of been a good designer.”

Jeremy’s design skills have been internationally recognised with awards from RIBA, the Boral Design Award, as well as his work on the Pride Centre National Design Competition, exhibited at the 2018 Venice Architecture Biennale. He relishes the process of studying context and exploring ways to enrich and invigorate, arriving at diverse solutions unencumbered by a formulaic style or language.

‘The interplay of creating strong conceptual stories for interior projects and the execution of these ideas through to construction with a practical, and most importantly, end user focused approach is what excites me most about the design process.’

Jean-François brings strong creative skills and a fresh eye to the various challenges of a project, with a focus on producing compelling and robust design solutions, rich in human experiences. He draws from a great diversity of project experience gained across a number of sectors including masterplanning, urban design, landscape architecture, education, multi-residential and architectural installations.

“Years of academic research on Nordic public squares in Canada & Scandinavia, and on Senegal’s suburban informal settlements has instilled me with a deep understanding of the relationship between the built environment and empowering, sensitive, urban experience. Advocacy for social and environmental sustainability is fundamental to our collective futures.”

With undergraduate qualifications in Art History and Chemistry Emma brings a diverse interdisciplinary perspective to her Architectural practice.

A keen interest in the relationship between space and learning pedagogies has seen Emma develop skills in the intelligent design of innovative and adaptable education spaces. She believes that good design can positively transform the culture of a community and improve learning outcomes through the creation of spaces that are enjoyable and engaging.

“Collaboration and communication are at the heart of what we do as architects, with each project having the opportunity to learn from those we work with to create something with value and meaning. Participation in this process is a true privilege and deep responsibility.”

Emma’s interest in spatial design and the craft of building extends beyond the education sector to master planning, workplace, and tertiary institutions. She approaches all projects with confidence good design adds great value, that all projects provide rich opportunities for growth and that engaging diverse perspectives build value that can extend beyond the built form.

Emma is an exceptional communicator with a strong focus on client collaboration and co-creation. She thrives on working with clients and consultants through all stages of a project, but particularly in establishing and guiding clients through comprehensive briefing processes.

She seeks out the challenges of working through complex project issues during the strategic and masterplanning level right through to on-site where there is the need for carefully considered and detailed design solutions. She strives to carry the early established design concepts and client priorities through to project completion.

“I love that the field of architecture is one that requires constant learning, research and experience. There is so much that we can gain from stepping out into the world and immersing ourselves in the spaces around us.”

Emma’s primary motivation is to positively contribute to 21st century contemporary and innovative learning environments and to establish frameworks for future education visions through a genuinely collaborative approach to design.

 “I try to approach all challenges and opportunities holistically and with creativity. By building upon my experience and the depth of knowledge of those around me  – there is always a solution that benefits the end-user, but still addresses the bigger picture.”