DJAS Architecture

18/12/2025

DJAS Architecture has been collaborating with TAS The Armidale School on the development of concept designs for much-needed new community facilities at Doody Park. We look forward to progressing the designs and hopefully, in time, seeing the project advance to construction.

05/11/2025

Earlier this year, DJAS Architecture CEO Catherine Carter gave a presentation at the ACT Major Projects Conference on the role of culture in city-making.

Her latest article in The Fifth Estate continues this conversation, exploring how we might think about city-making less as a technical exercise and more as a creative act, balancing infrastructure and investment with imagination and identity.

From the rhythms of New York to the harmonies of Canberra, Catherine reflects on how architecture and culture shape the places we call home.

Read the full article below:

Urban development is usually framed in pragmatic terms. A planning problem. An engineering challenge. A logistics puzzle. A financial equation. But what if we thought about city shaping like composing music?

30/10/2025

Thanks to NAWIC ACT for the opportunity to attend a site visit this week at the Condor Community Health Centre.

Designed by DJAS Architecture in collaboration with May & Russell Architects, the new centre will provide accessible, appointment-based community health services in a welcoming, safe and inclusive setting.

The building form draws inspiration from the Brindabella ranges, with sloped rooflines and a palette of colours and materials that reference local flora and the impressionist works of Charles Conder. Inside, the light-filled reception space connects visually to the landscape and separates clinical and staff areas with calm, natural tones.

Sustainability is integral to the design, with EV charging, solar PV readiness, water-sensitive landscaping and a 20% reduction in upfront carbon compared to a standard build.

Thanks to SHAPE Australia for hosting the tour, and to everyone who came out for a behind-the-scenes look at this exciting community project.

27/10/2025

At DJAS Architecture we've been taking the time to align our team and structure with the next stage of our strategic plan - ensuring we have the right people to deliver the kind of projects that matter most to our clients and communities.

As part of this, we're looking for a Project Lead or Senior Interior Designer to join our Canberra or Brisbane Studio. This role reflects a deliberate investment in strengthening our interiors capability and continuing to deliver thoughtful, people-centred design across Australia.

If you're ready to take a leading role in shaping meaningful workplaces and interior environments - supported by a collaborate, design-focused team - we'd love to hear from you.

Lead workplace and interior projects with a respected national design practice, shaping quality, people-centred spaces.

10/08/2025

Scott Hodgson appointed Fellow of DJAS Architecture

After many years of distinguished leadership as a Director of DJAS Architecture, Scott Hodgson is stepping back from his executive role. In recognition of his extraordinary contribution to the practice and the profession over more than three decades, Scott has been appointed as a Fellow of DJAS Architecture.

This honorary title acknowledges Scott’s longstanding commitment to design excellence, client service and community impact. His leadership has shaped some of Canberra’s most significant education, civic and commercial projects including the Belconnen Arts Centre Stage 2 and a long association with Canberra Grammar School, where his work spans the award-winning Snow Centre for Education in the Asian Century and the recently completed Primary School building.

Scott was also part of the design team that delivered key projects within the Majura Park and Brindabella Park precincts at Canberra Airport, contributing to the development of high-quality commercial office buildings and helping to shape these major employment centres over many years.

Scott began his architectural career at DJAS in 1995, returning to the practice after five years abroad in the United States. Throughout his career, he has combined creative problem-solving with deep technical expertise, bringing clarity and vision to complex projects across education, defence, aviation, urban design and the performing arts.

Scott is held in the highest regard by colleagues, clients and collaborators. As a DJAS Fellow, he remains part of our story – a trusted mentor and continuing presence whose legacy is built not just in buildings, but in the culture of quality and care he helped shape.

We thank Scott for his exceptional contribution and acknowledge the deep respect in which he is held across the profession.

04/08/2025

Today we remember Alastair Swayn AO, who died on this day in 2016.

Alastair was more than an architect. He was a mentor, advocate and visionary whose legacy lives on the work of DJAS Architecture.

His deep commitment to design wasn't just about buildings, it was about people. He believed in architecture that responded to place, celebrated colour, embraced light and reflected humanity.

We honour Alastair's memory today - and every day - through our ongoing commitment to the values he championed: generosity, integrity, and a belief in the power of design to shape a better future.

06/07/2025

In a year of strong competition and exceptional work across the education sector, we're proud to share that the new Primary School Building at Canberra Grammar School has received a Commendation for Educational Architecture at The Australian Institute of Architects, ACT Chapter Awards 2025.

This recognition celebrates a project that brings together quality design, a deep understanding of place, and a focus on learning. Sitting gently within the school’s historic landscape, the building draws inspiration from the surrounding campus materials and embraces two significant eucalyptus trees, shaping a welcoming, light-filled space that now marks the entrance to the Primary School.

More than a building, this project has strengthened connections between students, staff, parents and the broader School community. It reflects Canberra Grammar School’s strategic vision and offers students beautifully crafted spaces that enhance learning and spark joy.

Congratulations to everyone involved and thank you to our wonderful client for the opportunity to contribute to a place where young minds are nurtured and inspired.

19/05/2025

DJAS Architecture are proud to be working with the John James Foundation on the design of an Australian-first permanent palliative care respite centre in Garran.

01/05/2025

We were delighted to take part in an event last night at the University of Canberra connecting students from architecture, interior architecture and construction with industry professionals.

Members of the DJAS Architecture team enjoyed the opportunity to share insights, answer questions, and offer encouragement to the next generation of built environment professionals, all in a convivial and relaxed setting.

Thank you to Adjunct Professor Tarek El-Ansary for the invitation and for championing these valuable connections between students and industry.

31/03/2025

Congratulations to our friend and colleague Robert McKay on officially graduating with a Master of Architecture from the University of Canberra!

We're proud to have supported Robert on his journey as he balanced postgraduate study with his contribution to projects at DJAS Architecture. It's been a privilege to see his growth and talent in action, and we're delighted to see him continue his connection with UC as part of the Master of Architecture critique jury.

Well done Robert, we can't wait to see what comes next for you!

05/03/2025

Last night Tejal Damle, Graduate of Architecture at DJAS Architecture, took the stage at an archiNation event to share her journey of resilience in architecture.

Tejal spoke about navigating life and career across different cities and countries, adapting to new professional landscapes, and building her network from the ground up. She reflected on the challenges of not being considered a 'local,' adjusting to contrasting construction methods between India and Australia, and finding confidence in her own path.

Her biggest achievement? Being okay with being herself.

At DJAS we value diverse perspectives and the contributions of our fantastic team members like Tejal, who bring creativity, problem-solving and a passion for architecture and the architectural community.

And, as Tejal reminded the audience in closing "It's ok to correct people if they say your name wrong."

Australian Institute of Architects
The Australian Institute of Architects, ACT Chapter

24/02/2025