Architecture practice Warren and Mahoney has appointed Sven Ollmann as a principal in its Sydney studio following the firm’s recent achievement of $1billion of projects in development in Australia.
Ollmann arrives with more than 25 years’ experience working at the forefront of sustainable commercial design. He began his career in Europe before moving to Sydney in 2002 to lead the Foster + Partners team on the award-winning design for the landmark Deutsche Bank tower.
With several other high-profile commercial developments on his portfolio, including Frankfurt’s acclaimed Commerzbank building, Ollmann emphasised his desire to continue his new employer’s consultative style to developing buildings that put people at the heart of the design.
“Deep listening and learning is crucial to successful client relationships, and to understanding the brief to develop projects that respond to both clients’ needs and their stakeholders’ unique culture, values and identity,” he says.
“The firm’s commitment to investing in technology to bring innovation into this process is inspiring, especially with its specialist capabilities such as user experience design and BIM (Built Information Management). Of course, it’s the people who must harness the technology to create better outcomes for clients and our cities, and I’m looking forward to being part of a brilliant team who are committed to innovation and design excellence.”
Warren and Mahoney managing principal Gavin Kain says he is “thrilled” to welcome Sven to the team in Australia. “He has a strong passion for sustainability, and a depth of knowledge and understanding across commercial, infrastructure, civic and residential sectors that few in the industry can compete with.
“Sven’s ethos of workable, appropriate sustainability solutions that benefit and strengthen communities, is very much aligned with Warren and Mahoney’s approach. We’re confident this expertise will play an integral role in building our portfolio of clients and projects in Australia.”
Ollmann adds that he is excited to get involved in strategy for a range of developments across the business as Warren and Mahoney head up several large-scale projects in Sydney, where he’ll be located.
“I was impressed with the body of work shown by Warren and Mahoney – consistently impressive quality, which is no easy feat to achieve. The firm has a great reputation within the industry in Australia as a forward-thinking and collaborative practice, and I’m excited to work with their growing portfolio of progressive clients.”