About Us

INTRODUCTION
The original practice was established by Dean Walker in 1997. The name was changed in 2002 when Dean teamed up with Patrick Smith the former manager of Protekon Architects. Patrick Smith is currently the 100% equity holding member.

In 2009, Walker Smith Architects acquired the practice of Rougier Swiatek Architects and the two firms were subsequently amalgamated.

OPERATION

We believe fundamentally in the concept that the team is stronger than the individual and that well led collective thought is more effective than autocracy. This is evidenced by the structure of the practice and the associated practices with whom we share our premises. Walker Smith Architects employs a core team and then contracts with these associated practices as required.

PHILOSOPHY
Walker Smith Architects believes fundamentally in an architecture that is generated and not predetermined and then simply imposed on the site. We believe that as each brief and site is completely unique, logically so should the design solution be.

The design therefore responds to those things that cannot easily be changed, such as:

• • The orientation of the site e.g. where the sun rises and sets in relation to the site.
  • The building should be orientated to the best advantage of the
  • The regional climate. The design should respond to local weather conditions.
  • The building context of significant adjacent built form.
  • The existing social and historical context.
  • The physical parameters of the site.
  • Town planning by-laws.
  • The brief and schedule of accommodation.
  • The budget.
  • Availability of materials.
  • Available building expertise.
  • The built vernacular.

The Walker Smith Architects team thrives on new challenges and is passionate about producing architecture of appropriateness and excellence!