HDR strengthens its specialist capability with a new appointment, Carr unveils two new leaders across two studios, and Matthews Architects elevates internally in this month’s round up of industry appointments.

HDR bolsters defence and aviation capability with new appointment 

HDR associate principal of defence and aviation Kate Macdonald. Photo: supplied

HDR has appointed Kate Macdonald as associate principal of defence and aviation to bolster its strategic expertise within the global architecture and engineering firm. In her role, Macdonald will collaborate with HDR’s multidisciplinary practice – including building engineering, aviation and transportation – to meet the needs of these highly technical sectors.

Macdonald joins HDR from Cox Architecture. Prior to this, she spent 20 years as director at Alasdair Macdonald Architects. Macdonald’s expertise in aviation has seen her design everything from airport terminals to aerobridges, aircraft hangars, simulator training facilities, freight and logistics buildings, office amenities and associated ancillary buildings. 

In her new role at HDR, Kate will collaborate with architecture managing principal Huai Lim, federal principal Tim Napper, and the country’s 120-strong architectural practice to deliver complex, highly technical projects and programs. 

“Kate’s depth and breadth of experience will supercharge our Australian practice at a time when our markets and services are focused on delivering mission- and data-informed, human-centred projects that serve as a force multiplier for Defence,” HDR global director of federal architecture Susana Erpestad says.

Carr unveils two new leaders

Left to right: Carr associates Juan Hernandez Flores and Cara McIntyre. Photography by Gavin Green

Architecture and interior design studio Carr announced two notable movements across its Melbourne- and Brisbane-based teams.

Cara McIntyre joins the Brisbane leadership team as an associate. Fresh out of nearly 11 years at Bates Smart, the interior designer possesses a strong commercial acumen and bolsters Carr’s representation in the region, according to Carr’s announcement. 

“Cara’s expertise and commitment to excellence align with Carr’s strategic goals for Queensland, an area rich with dual-discipline design opportunities,” CEO Nick Carr says.

McIntyre says she aspires to design spaces that incorporate a variety of raw materials, “creating timeless and thoughtfully considered environments reflective of the studio’s design ethos”.

Her appointment follows the recent elevation of Juan Hernandez Flores to associate. While based in Melbourne, Hernandez Flores has also been involved in the development of Carr’s interstate portfolio, delivering a series of major projects in Queensland.

“I thrive on collaborative efforts, where ideas flow freely, and we develop solutions together,” he says.

Matthews Architects announces senior appointment

Matthews Architects associate Claire Perperidis. Photo: supplied

After three years as project lead at Matthews Architects, Claire Perperidis has been appointed to associate at the South Australian architecture and interior design firm in North Adelaide.

Perperidis joined Matthews Architects in 2022, contributing to large-scale commercial projects as well as to the ongoing operation and growth of the company. She has also been responsible for running a variety of projects from initial evaluation and feasibility studies through to detailed design, contract administration and construction, including Plympton International College, Walford Anglican School for Girls and the redevelopment of the Ahrens office.

Now as associate, Perperidis will take on a project management role, overseeing multiple projects. She will also contribute to the business development of the firm, working to secure a variety of projects.

“Experience is invaluable – the more you learn by doing, the more insights you gain from each project, allowing you to apply that knowledge to the next challenge,” she says.

Related: View last month’s round up of industry appointments in architecture and design here.