John Wardle Architects has expanded its operations to the north, with the appointment of Jasmin Williamson as the practice’s first Sydney-based Partner.
The first Partner to be based outside of Melbourne, Williamson’s appointment is complemented by a number of promotions that demonstrate the growth of the practice. Existing JWA Partner Meaghan Dwyer says Williamson is a welcome addition to the team.
“Jasmin’s experience and expertise are tremendous assets. She infuses great enthusiasm and optimism through our Sydney studio and leads with an emphatic sense of curiosity. She continually uncovers unexpected and complementary outcomes – both in project work and business strategy,” she says.
Williamson joined JWA Melbourne in 2006 and began her career working on large scale projects including Melbourne School of Design for University of Melbourne, Monash University Caulfield Library, and the 500 Bourke Street redevelopment. She returned to her hometown of Sydney in 2018 to establish JWA’s Sydney presence and became a principal of the practice in 2020.
The Sydney studio now houses 18 members, with Williamson overseeing operations. As she steps into a business director role, Williamson will continue to lead large-scale projects such as the redevelopment of 477 Pitt Street that is now the new permanent home of the practice in Sydney.
In addition to the promotion of Williamson, Luke Jarvis and Emily Kilvington have been appointed as Principals. Luke Jarvis has a remarkable ability to work across multiple projects at different scales and is currently Project Director for St Patrick's College Ballarat and 895 Ann St. Jarvic maintains fantastic working relationships with people within and beyond the practice and is a dedicated mentor of team members.
Emily Kilvington boasts extraordinary expertise in the design and delivery of large public projects and masterplans, having worked across several projects for Epworth, Scienceworks and Tasports Devonport. Since joining in May 2021, Kilvington has made a huge contribution to JWA’s business development strategy with her smart thinking and level-headed leadership.
Tine Van de Wiele and Tom Denham have become Associates, with Van de Wiele demonstrating an incredible work ethic, expertly managing project complexities as Project Leader on Cradle Coast Campus and Rivers Edge at the University of Tasmania. Van de Wiele’s practice contribution also extends to her generous mentorship of other staff and as a go-to person for technical knowledge and project leadership advice. She is also a member of the sustainability team.
Tom Denham is a highly valued member of the project delivery team and has consistently performed above and beyond his role of BIM Coordinator. Denham has implemented many efficiency innovations and initiatives on projects, providing support through the creation of guides, research papers, training videos and the Revit Kit of Parts.
Rounding out the promotions, Kristina Levenko has been elevated to the position of Senior Design Architect. Levenko is a well-respected member of JWA’s design and visualisation team, having worked across many educational projects including Ian Potter Southbank Centre and the recently completed School of Design and the Built Environment at Curtin University. Levenko joined as a graduate and is a terrific guide for newer staff in the expanding design team, maintaining strong supportive communication and providing cohesive design solutions.
Image: L-R Tine Van de Wiele, Kristina Levenko, Emily Kilvington, Luke Jarvis, Tom Denham