SOM opens new Melbourne studio

Global architecture, urban design, and engineering practice Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM) has opened a new studio in Melbourne to support their expanding portfolio of work in Australia and across the region. 

Designed to accommodate up to 24 architects, urban designers and engineers, the studio is led by Partners Scott Duncan, Adam Semel, and Doug Voigt.

“This studio marks a significant milestone in our commitment to Australia, after more than 50 years of working here,” says SOM Partner Adam Semel. 

“Our team’s deep bench of local knowledge, combined with the expertise of our global practice, will enable us to meet the exceptional ambitions of our clients across the region.” 

Continuing the legacy of delivering such landmark projects as Sydney’s heritage-listed Wentworth Hotel and the award-winning 100 Mount St. in North Sydney, the Australia studio’s recent commissions include the restoration and expansion of Melbourne’s historic coffee palace at 189 Toorak Road, a new tech hub at Central Place Sydney, a residential development at 424 St. Kilda Road and ongoing work in Perth. 

 Located on the third floor of the Union Bank Chambers building in Melbourne’s Central Business District, the studio incorporates contemporary, low-carbon materials, such as Tasmanian oak, marble, and polished concrete, into the nearly century-old building. 

“A multidisciplinary approach has been foundational to our practice and to SOM’s delivery of exceptional results on projects worldwide,” says Scott Duncan. 

“Our Melbourne studio extends that ethos by bringing together expertise in urban design, engineering, and architecture, and we’re excited to bring our collaborative process to our work in Australia.” 

The new space at 351 Elizabeth St. in Melbourne is one of 14 SOM studios around the globe and is set to anchor their practice in Asia Pacific, alongside studios in Hong Kong, Shanghai, and Guangzhou.

Images: Nicole England | Amelia Dowd