H&E Architects, Sydney: Collaborative, Engaged, Committed.

For H&E Architects, its office – which it moved to last summer – is key to its culture, providing a flexible, inclusive space which promotes social interaction. The open-plan office space has history and character with riveted steel columns, pressed metal ceilings, timber floors and large arched windows offering views over Sydney’s skyline.

“We searched high and low for the right location and a space that allowed an opportunity to elevate and personalise the space,” says Director Glenn Cunnington. “When we found it, the general arrangement came relatively easily and we collaboratively set about resolving the details and interiors to best suit our ambitions.”

He adds: “Natural light penetrates from three sides – with windows that also open to allow natural ventilation. It makes for a great studio space.”

For this positive, engaged and persistent practice, its culture is reflected in how it treats its clients and their projects. “We treat our clients’ projects and their money as our own. And we take a 360-degree view of every project,” adds Cunnington.

“We are an optimistic outfit and support our optimism via engagement and persistence. We also look out for each other – we have our client’s back and that of our colleagues. We love our work. We truly enjoy it.” 

The small practice, which employs 18 staff, has a vision and plan much more akin to a larger firm. Each year the leadership team draws up a strategic plan which sets out plans for growth, increasing diversity and proposals for projects in a way which will guide the practice’s evolution. This then feeds into staff development with a structured system of regular performance reviews and a bonus pool which rewards the hard work of the team. 

They also plan monthly and seasonal activities which provides a rhythm to practice life while also placing it at the heart of the local design community.

Photo Credits: (header) Pin-up © H&E Architects - (footer right to left) People / Collaborate © H&E Architects /  Environment © Richard Glover.