Hames Sharley has partnered with Khoa Do of Curtin University to enhance the practice’s design process and bridge the gap between academia and the private sector. 

Bringing with him more than two decades of experience in university and private architecture sectors, Khoa Do is currently Associate Professor of Architecture and Deputy Chair of the Curtin Academy. He has a special research interest in the advancement of work-integrated learning (WIL) simulation and multicultural design engagement approaches.

Do will hold the title of Adjunct Principal of Research, Education and Practice at the Hames Sharley’s new academic research arm. 

This is the first of several similar appointments by the multidisciplinary practice that will act as conduits between academia, the firm and wider built environment industries.

Bolstering Hames Sharley’s existing knowledge bank, the new arm will focus on applied practice and educational research while also functioning as a hub for design innovation and support excellence in project-based collaborations. 

“In creating this strategic alliance, we are choosing to focus on the future; what we did before is not an indicator of what will come,” explains Hames Sharley managing director, Caillin Howard. 

“This connection between academia and industry will create a spark of innovation and allow us to share intelligence for the common good.” 

On announcement of his appointment Khoa Do thanked Hames Sharley for their “trust” and “foresight” . 

“I am confident that this catalytic partnership will pave pathways for greater discourse and agency for an academic-industry research nexus-exchange globally,” says Do.

This year Hames Sharley has made a slew of appointments across its six national studios. Most recently, South Australian studio leader Leon Gouws was appointed as a practice director.