Regional practice

Different models of regional architectural practice can be found across Australia, from small, locally embedded firms to larger urban offices that specialize in regional projects, working with or without local partners. Collaboration between regional and urban practices combines local knowledge with diverse skills and experience, enabling smaller local practices to be involved in larger public realm projects. The knowledge sharing and upskilling realized by joint ventures and other modes of collaboration streamline the practicalities of compiling submissions, improve documentation capability and management structures and capitalize on past experiences of dealing with diverse user groups and clients, particularly local councils, state governments and universities. The nuanced understanding possessed by local practices provides insight into a diverse range of issues, from the practicalities of materials and trades supply to the particularities of culture, character and context.