Context Landscape Architecture celebrates a new associate director and Sydney studio, while Hot Black’s Eliza Monti moves up the ranks – and up north – to the studio’s new Brisbane office in this month’s round up of industry appointments.

An ‘era of evolution’ for Context

Context Landscape Architecture says it is embarking on a new “future-focused” chapter marked by a new member of the leadership team and a recent move to a new studio location in Sydney. 

This includes the appointment of associate director, Scott Jackson, whose expertise spans urban design, master planning, public domain projects and more. Jackson’s appointment aims to invigorate the studio’s culture and direction, according to the studio.

“We are motivated to continue addressing some of the most significant challenges facing natural and urban environments today through our work – such as mitigating the effects of climate change, designing for Country, urban renewal, and improving connectivity via a human-centred approach to design,” Jackson says.

“This mindset will underpin our approach in this new chapter.” 

Having grown its team two-fold in the past 18 months, Context studio has also recently relocated to a new studio in the heart of Chippendale in Sydney, marking a “dynamic new chapter in the studio’s evolution”, says director Hamish Dounan.

“It also celebrates and reflects on our diverse existing portfolio which represents over 30 years of experience in designing landmark projects of significance across the built environment,” he says.

Eliza Monti promoted to pave the way for Hot Black’s expansion into Brisbane

Interdisciplinary design practice Hot Black is also making moves around the country.

Hot Black founder and design director, Sophie Safrin, announced on Linkedin on 21 March that Eliza Monti had been promoted from associate to associate director.

“Eliza started in the Melbourne office nine years ago as a fresh-faced interior design graduate. Over the past nine years, Eliza has become one of the pioneering members of our Hot Black growth story,” Safrin said.

“With a passion for design and a determination second-to-none, Eliza took on the challenge to establish our Sydney Studio in 2016. Creating on-going partnerships that have been at the heart of our success, the Sydney studio is now in it’s [sic] eighth year in operation.”

Safrin also noted that Hot Black has made the “strategic” decision to expand its footprint into Brisbane with the help of Monti.

“As the city continues to evolve as a hub for innovation, culture, and commerce, we believe there is no better time to bring our design ethos to this thriving community,” she said.

“Brisbane’s energy and growth potential aligns perfectly with Hot Black’s mission to create environments that foster creativity, collaboration and lifestyle. 

Safrin expressed pride in Monti’s contribution and excitement for her future success up north.

“I look forward to working closely together as we expand Hot Black and continue to redefine and grow the business into the Brisbane market,” Safrin concluded.

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