We would like to introduce you to our team…
Allan Spira, Principal
Allan has been renovating and creating homes in Canberra for around 30 years. He can quickly assess the opportunities and constraints for either renovation or rebuild and is always looking for opportunities to make best use of the whole building site to achieve affordable and sustainable design.
Allan is a fellow of the Australian Institute of Architects and convenes the Canberra Small Practice Group, a network of architects involved in the residential sector. Monthly meetings keep members abreast of the latest trends and changes to planning and building requirements.
In 2012, Allan was awarded the Presidents Medal for his long term commitment to small practice in the ACT and his contribution to architectural education, support to victims of the 2003 bushfire tragedy and participation in various planning and building forums.
Allan has cultivated a group of established builders who compete for his projects, via a competitive tendering process, netting his clients fair prices and high quality construction. This is reflected in the numerous architecture and building awards and commendations received over many years.
Allan has a particular interest in the innovative development of our suburbs to better cater to a more diverse range of households and in particular, to provide alternatives to apartment living for the many down-sizing baby-boomers who wish to remain in their neighbourhoods.
Robyn Spira, Office Manager
Robyn has been with the practice since its inception, initially assisting with design and manual drawing (in the days of drafting pens, tracing paper and drawing boards!) and as the practice grew, morphing into her current role.
Robyn has a fine arts background, holding a Diploma or Arts from the Canberra School of Art, where she majored in Graphic Investigation, exploring a variety of media including printing, drawing, paper making and the making of artists’ books, an art form pioneered by her teacher Petr Herel. Her work was included in an international travelling exhibition of artwork from the Graphic Investigation Workshop.
In addition to her creative influence, Robyn ensures that the office runs smoothly, keeping a discerning eye on the work program and maintains an efficient and welcoming home-based office environment.
James Gaughwin, Architect
James joined our team after graduating from the University of Canberra with a Masters of Architecture in 2016. With prior experience in an engineering firm, his understanding of both structural and architectural design is a valuable asset to the team.
James works on a wide range of projects, with special interest in energy efficient, well detailed homes. He enjoys all facets of architectural services and looks forward to every project he’s involved in
Tash Bonney, Student of Architecture
Tash joined our team in early 2019 after moving to Canberra from Queensland. In 2016, she completed her undergraduate degree in architecture. With prior experience in larger scale projects and working in tropical Australia, she brings a unique approach to residential design. Tash enjoys the challenge of individualising homes for each client, along with ensuring the design is suited for all stages of life.
The energy Tash brings to the office is always focused on achieving the best solution for our clients.
