Hames Sharley has announced two new additions to its Melbourne and Perth studios, with Christian Gerdes and Toby Hitzman becoming Senior Architects. The appointments made by the practice have been made in an effort to strengthen its capabilities and be instrumental in the firm’s delivery of design excellence nationally and within the local Melbourne and Perth markets.
Both appointments join the practice with extensive experience in large-scale commercial projects and specialist knowledge in Building Information Modelling (BIM), and will work with their teams to meet growing client demand in these areas.
Joining Hames Sharley from Mitsubishi Jisho Sekkei in Japan, Christian Gerdes brings 20 years’ experience in design and construction to his new Senior Architect role. With extensive expertise across retail, commercial, education and hospital projects and in-depth understanding of modern technologies, Gerdes’ new role will comprise of mixed-use, commercial and defence developments, mentoring and signals the return to growth in the Melbourne market. Gerdes was a BIM Specialist and Architect at his former practice for over three years.
Hames Sharley Victorian Studio Leader, Elise Miles Simonovski, says Gerdes’ specialist technological knowledge will help expand the team’s digital capabilities.
“We are delighted to welcome someone of Christian’s calibre to the Melbourne studio. As a seasoned architect with extensive technical expertise and specialist BIM knowledge, Christian is a tremendous asset to the team and our staff and clients will benefit from his wealth of knowledge.”
Joining the Perth studio, Toby Hitzman brings to the role 14 years’ experience in the design & construction industry with strong expertise in high-end residential and commercial developments. With proven success in delivering large-scale landmark projects, Hitzman will focus on Stage 2 of the TL Robertson Library Refurbishment & Upgrade and work closely with the Contractor & Consultants throughout Design Development and into Practical Completion.
Hames Sharley Perth Studio Leader, Brook McGowan, says Hitzman will be responsible for leading landmark projects as the team continues its steady growth.
“As development across WA expands, it is important that we have the right senior architects in place to fuel Hames Sharley’s growth and continue to meet client demand. Toby’s experience on major projects such as Optus Stadium, Bayswater Station and the Perth Station & Northbridge Link Masterplan is an advantage for Hames Sharley and we welcome him to the team.”
For more information regarding the appointments, visit www.hamessharley.com.au.
Image: L-R: Toby Hitzman & Christian Gerdes / Supplied.
