National practice Rothelowman has announced it has merged with Perth firm Fratelle, which will strengthen its design output on the west coast.
The announcement of the merger follows a two-year partnership between the two firms, who will combine unique capabilities and a positive impact on Western Australia’s built environment on a permanent basis.
Fratelle’s expertise in aged care, specialist housing, heritage and its deep understanding of Perth’s design language will complement the practice’s mutual capabilities in the residentia, retail, hospitality, commercial and mixed-use sectors.
The merger comes into effect today, creating a 220-strong national team under the Rothelowman banner, with the practice’s ability to deliver high-end projects across the state boosted by the additional staff. Kylee Schoonens will become a Principal as part of the merger agreement, after founding Fratelle in 2010.
“We are excited to welcome Kylee Schoonens and the entire Fratelle team to our national collective,” says Rothelowman Managing Principal, Nigel Hobart.
“Having worked closely together since 2020, Rothelowman has seen firsthand the exceptional work delivered by Fratelle. With an alignment of goals and values, combining our expertise and resources was the natural evolution for Rothelowman.
“As a respected voice and advocate for the property and construction industry, Kylee’s ability to positively influence her peers goes beyond her immediate team. As she steps into her role as Principal, Kylee brings a fresh perspective and refined skillset to the Rothelowman leadership team that we haven’t had before.
“Kylee and the Fratelle team joining Rothelowman is the last piece of the puzzle for Rothelowman to achieve true nation-wide geographic, sector and service diversity.”
Rothelowman’s WA pipeline is valued at approximately $500 million, with a suite of projects anticipated to be confirmed in the wake of the merger. Schoonens says the new structure her team now works under will boost its ability to influence and shape WA’s built environment.
“The Fratelle team is thrilled to become part of Rothelowman,” she says.
“It will significantly enhance our growth in WA and provide us with greater exposure to projects across the country. As part of an established team that has more than 30 years’ experience delivering large-scale complex projects across Australia, we have a very bright future ahead of us.
“I am excited to join the prestigious and experienced team of Principals at Rothelowman and look forward to making an impact on the future of the practice.”
