fjmt, Sydney: Design, Excellence, Innovation.

“fjmt is dedicated to design excellence and the enhancement of the public domain. The studio design direction and culture revolves around the application of these values to project based collaboration,” says fjmt Managing Principal Elizabeth Carpenter. “It is a highly interactive and organic environment, formed through the relationships between integrated disciplines,” she adds. The practice places an emphasis on quality, rigour and creative contribution from all staff. This approach “encourages professionalism, diversity and equality, and the creation of a dynamic workplace of common purpose and identity.” The practice now employs more than 130 staff which has grown from just over 30, fifteen years ago. fjmt work across five disciplines: architecture, interior design, urban masterplanning, landscape architecture and community. Located in a contemporary glazed extension to Sydney’s historic Blackett Building, designed by fjmt in 2010, the studio occupies two levels in an open-plan environment. The office space provides a unique view of the city down both George and King Street. The lower level is connected to a generous roof terrace providing a welcome respite for studio functions, casual meetings and breakout. 

The studio culture is an important aspect of fjmt reinforced both formally, through talks and seminars and informally, through an active Intranet and a variety of social events, with the end of the year celebration held at one of the studio’s recently completed projects. Everyone is encouraged to actively participate in dialogue. 

Every two years there is a focus on the development of the practice and its values at a biannual ‘Excellence Conference’ where staff come together to discuss the shared vision of the practice. “fjmt is a company that supports staff growth, innovation, performance and development. It has high expectations and promotes distinctive professionalism and exemplary standards,” concludes Carpenter.

Photo Credits: (header) EY Centre’s foyer and Judy Watson’s artwork © Brett Boardman - (footer left to right) EY Centre © Gareth Hayman/ Judy Watson at work / Sandstone quarried from the site.