Sydney-based Alexander &CO. is a multidisciplinary design practice with a global reach. Its capabilities span a broad range of typological sectors and all facets of spatial and brand design. But at the core of its DNA is the ambition to create timeless, market-leading design. The studio’s project philosophy focuses on the need to establish handmade, craft-focused and traditional manufacturing structures around contemporary architecture and design thinking.

The people and culture of Alexander &CO. are recognised by empathy and communication. Transparency and openness is the studio’s bedrock and its structures are built around effectively providing goal-focused individual growth, support and security. By considering client relationships as design partnerships, a climate of openness and transparency is maintained. The 22-person team acknowledges its role in contributing positively and sustainably within its shared global village.

Graduate team members complete a three-month internship and six-month cadetship prior to joining project workflow, and leaders undertake monthly goal setting to align with the company scorecard. New team leaders are provided with a weekly mentorship with the Principal. A company dividend structure rewards team leaders for company financial and team financial performance, individual goal setting and balance scorecard assessment.

As an equal-opportunities employer with a senior leadership team made up solely of female practitioners, the practice vision advocates for its young and otherwise marginalised members (mothers, part-time employees). Architecture is second only to law as the worst post-maternity vocation for women; Alexander &CO. has taken an active view to reverse this trend, introducing work flexibility and paid maternity leave. With a need to foster social change in Australia, Alexander &CO. has also initiated an indigenous mentorship and institution outreach program. This program’s aim is to work with various architecture and interior design-focused institutions to recruit trained indigenous candidates for a role within the practice.

Photography: Anson Smart, Felix Forest, Tom Ferguson, Brooke Holm.