Australia’s i2C architects have announced they will be joining forces with UK firm Ryder Architecture and forming a new alliance that could signal a new model for architectural practices.

Ryder Alliance will consolidate i2C and Ryder Architecture’s practices in Melbourne, Sydney and Perth, and in the UK and Hong Kong.

The alliance will also see Ryder Architecture’s “BIM Academy” come to Australian shores which emphasises the Ryder Alliance’s push for a more integrated and streamlined service.

The BIM Academy is a new centre that strives for excellence for Building Information Modelling (BIM) through research and education, and also functions as a consultancy.

I2C have also announced they have recruited Spanish architect Ines Benavente Molina and interior designer Magdalena Uscinowicz to boost their domestic workforce.