Hames Sharley’s WA Studio is entering a new chapter, with Director Derek Hays stepping into the role of Studio Leader.

Building on an impressive 25-year career with the interdisciplinary design practice, the appointment sees Derek take on the new challenge after serving as the Head of Hames Sharley’s National Design Forum since 2019.

“The business of architecture has changed a lot over the last 25 years, but what hasn’t changed is that our WA Studio is filled with brilliant, creative people, and I’m excited to work alongside them to drive growth and uphold a high standard of design excellence,” says Derek.

With decades of experience working on notable projects across almost all of Hames Sharley’s portfolios, Derek is well-positioned to lead the studio with a focus on driving growth in several key sectors, including Residential, Health, Retail & Town Centres and Sport & Recreation.

“We are particularly excited to continue our success in the Sport & Recreation portfolio with the recent appointment of Principal Richard Morrell, who brings unparalleled expertise in this space,” Derek says.

The announcement follows the promotion of previous WA Studio Leader, Brook McGowan, to the position of Head of Studios. This strategic position sees Brook leading the studio stream of the practice and joining the national executive team.

While still based in Perth, Brook’s focus will be on driving unity and collective knowledge sharing across the country. “While we work from many studios, at the end of the day we operate as one national practice working towards a common goal – enabling communities to flourish,” he says.

Brook says Derek’s vast experience in the practice makes him the right fit to lead the WA Studio into its next chapter and build on its legacy of creating innovative and inclusive places across the state.

“Derek knows exactly what it is that makes Hames Sharley great, and that’s the people,” says Brook. “Having been a part of the WA Studio for such a long time, he knows how to get the best out of the team, which means they are empowered to do what they do best.”

Hames Sharley’s WA studio continues to create innovative and sustainable places that promote meaningful connections, including Arup’s new sustainable workplace in WS2, St Teresa’s Library at Notre Dame University, and the redevelopment of Carillon City in Perth’s CBD.