After a decade of work in Victoria, award-winning architecture and interior design practice Studio Nine Architects has taken a major step in its evolution with the establishment of a permanent studio in Melbourne. While the Collingwood base has been operating since mid-2024, the official announcement marks a significant milestone in the practice’s long-term strategy to grow its presence across Australia.

The expansion was set in motion when Senior Architect Kanishk Meghani relocated to Melbourne last year, providing the catalyst to expand the practice’s interstate operations. While Meghani has since returned to the Adelaide studio, the Melbourne team has steadily grown, building momentum for the studio’s future.

Among the key appointments is Senior Architect Andy Lim, who previously worked as Senior Project Lead at Rothelowman. A specialist in multi-residential projects with strong local knowledge, Lim will be instrumental in establishing a solid foundation for the Melbourne studio.

Also joining the studio is Design Technologies Lead Franz Hein, an architecture and construction technology leader with more than 30 years of industry experience including roles at Woods Bagot, Architectus and Hayball. A specialist in BIM and design technology, Hein drives digital innovation across the practice, strengthening collaboration, streamlining systems and project delivery, and elevating design outcomes.

The team also includes aspiring Graduate of Architecture, Dion Capone, who began his career with Studio Nine in Adelaide before moving to Melbourne last year. After gaining experience with local practices, he has rejoined the new studio, contributing to the growth of connections and brand awareness in Victoria.

“Melbourne has always been an important part of our pipeline of work,” says Managing Director Andrew Steele. “Establishing a permanent studio allows us to better service our longstanding clients locally and expand our portfolio of work.”

The practice continues to deliver affordable housing and hospitality projects in Victoria, with current projects including a new Kaya Health Club at Chadstone and the refurbishment of the iconic Adelphi Hotel.

Both the Adelaide and Melbourne studios work collaboratively through shared digital systems to ensure a consistent approach to design and delivery across projects nationally.

With its Melbourne base now firmly established, Studio Nine Architects has set a clear course for the practice’s future growth.

Main image: Melbourne team (Supplied)

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