This article is from the Australian Property Journal archive
LEADING Australian architecture and design firms, Architectus and Conrad Gargett have merged their business operations, becoming one of the country’s largest design firms.
The merger is now effective, with Architectus with Conrad Gargett now employing 700 workers across seven studios, with a combined expertise across the Education, Transport, Public, Defence, Health, Heritage, Urban Futures, Landscape Architecture, Commercial, Residential and Interior Architecture sectors.
“There was a lot that attracted us to Conrad Gargett – its established presence in Brisbane, deep sector expertise in Health, Defence, and Heritage and an outstanding reputation built over 133 years, but what’s most exciting is the ability to develop and attract the best talent in the industry,” said Ray Brown, CEO at Architectus.
“By integrating our teams, we’ll unlock so much potential for our clients who will have access to great talent, and staff will be connected to new mentors and career opportunities across a diverse and sustainable practice.”
With Architectus’ expanded footprint in Queensland and Conrad Gargett’s expertise in health and defence, the merged firms are now well positioned to take advantage of the upcoming 2032 Brisbane Olympics and the current emphasis on investment in health and defence.
“With a national footprint and combined resource base, we’re in a strong position to scale-up for new and existing opportunities,” said Lawrence Toaldo, managing director at Conrad Gargett.
“In addition to the practical synergies we share with Architectus is the shared vision to create resilient and meaningful places for people. It’s terrific to be moving forward with a design philosophy to create this work together.”
The merger is now complete and in effect, with integration of the firms underway and set to be further rolled out over the coming months.
This will include Toaldo joining the Architectus Board and taking on the role of group director of defence, health and heritage.
“With an ambition to become Australia’s leading national architecture and design practice, this merger ensures we’re well on track to achieve this,” concluded Brown.
