After an incredible 25 years of service to the practice, James Edwards has been recognised as a Fellow of Hames Sharley, stepping out from his role as Director and National Portfolio Leader for Education, Science & Research (ESR).

Fellowship recognises individuals who have made significant professional contributions within Hames Sharley and provides the opportunity for senior alumni to remain engaged and share their years of knowledge.

James has been a pivotal leader in contributing to the practice, particularly through his stewardship of the ESR portfolio, which he has guided with innovation, insight and solutions that exceeded aspirations. As a Fellow, James will remain closely connected to Hames Sharley, offering his wealth of expertise and insights to continue to be a part of the practice, its people, and its clients.

National Portfolio Leader Gavin Kain said James was a classic example of how the architectural profession enables practitioners to grow, learn and evolve throughout their careers.

“James brought to Hames Sharley international expertise and over the next 25 years continued to innovate and shape both the projects he led and the practice itself,” he said. “To know that he will continue to be involved in the years to come as a Fellow of the practice is a benefit to us all.”

James will support Director Jessika Hames, who now takes over leadership of the ESR portfolio. Jessika has been a key contributor to the portfolio for many years, and her deep commitment to its success makes her the perfect person to drive this important area of the practice forward.

“It is exciting to imagine where the Education, Science & Research portfolio will go under Jessika’s new leadership and James’ ongoing support,” Gavin said. “Jessika is a driven and passionate designer who will build a new chapter of the Hames Sharley legacy.”