Synergy in Design: Adelaide Graduates on People Architecture

At Woods Bagot, we believe in ‘People Architecture’ – the celebration of diversity across cultures, propelled by a shared sense of empathy where the values of end users and the values of design are one and the same.

That’s why we look for innovative and creative graduates who want to meaningfully contribute and actively engage in what has been described by our CEO, Nik Karalis, as ‘a 150-year old start up business reliant on inclusivity, diverse perspectives and incredible thinkers’.

The annual graduate program, which commenced in February 2023, offered 13 graduate positions in both Architecture and Interior Design disciplines in our Australian and New Zealand studios.

The Graduate program is a six-part series that covers the stories across the Global Studio. Stay tuned for more!

Stephanie and Annelise. Photography: Joelle Raabe.

Meet the dynamic duo out of Adelaide – Annelise Beck and Stephanie Pahl. These two talented grads bring some serious flair to the design table.

Annelise Beck holds a Masters degree in Architecture from the University of South Australia, and is all about diving headfirst into W-B’s People Architecture ethos. Her passion lies in harmonizing the natural and built environments and she’s keen on unraveling how various disciplines and individuals interact within these spaces.

Another alumna of the University of SA, Stephanie Pahl, brings a fresh perspective with a Bachelor’s degree in Interior Architecture and a background in health and paramedicine studies. She’s found a satisfying fusion of her diverse interests, channeling her enthusiasm into understanding the impacts of design disciplines on the end user, their experiences and overall quality of life.

Their distinctive perspectives and experiences offer a uniqe lens for those considering a similar path in the design and architecture world. We invite you to hear from our graduates and see what they got up to!

Stephanie and Annelise.

What do you enjoy most about the Graduate program at Woods Bagot so far?

Annelise: I’ve loved all the opportunities I’ve had to learn across different projects and discussions in studio. The diverse nature of training has allowed for an easy integration into professional work and support from studio and fellow graduates encourages me to continue developing my skills further.

Stephanie: The people I get to work with – I’ve learnt so much so quickly thus far in this program and it’s because my peers have all contributed in mentoring me and coaching my skills.

How has it been working with your project leader and team?

Annelise: Working alongside my team has allowed me to grow my understanding of architecture so much in such a short time. I really appreciate their understanding of the systems and processes behind what we do on an everyday basis. It’s been great being a part of a team that are willing to teach and mentor me through my graduate program.

Stephanie: It’s been great – my team has been very supportive generally of my progression and skill development. They have pushed me to get the most out of myself and helped me grow as a grad.

With a background in health and paramedics, Stephanie has been able to apply her knowledge and skills in Woods Bagot’s design for the Adelaide’s New Women’s and Children’s Hospital (New WCH). Read about the project in the health insight ‘People-centric care’ sounds obvious, but we’re stuck in a system by Edwina Bennett, Principal and Global Health Sector Leader.

What has working on your project taught you?

Annelise: Over the course of the graduate program I’ve learnt a lot of efficiencies for using a range of digital and technical programs that I wish I had known while at university. 

Stephanie: I’ve developed my digital skills, including Revit, Enscape, Photoshop and InDesign. I have also really developed my detailing and my pragmatic understanding of construction and joinery techniques and finishes applications.

Stephanie and Annelise in the Woods Bagot Adelaide studio.

Inspiration. Innovation. Inclusiveness. We are Woods Bagot.

At Woods Bagot, we are committed to creating an environment where difference is celebrated, valued and respected, practices are equitable, and our people feel like they belong. We accept that none of us is smarter than all of us. We believe building a diverse workforce is the foundation to creativity and innovative design – it is only by working together that we can realise the potential of our people, clients and communities around us. Through our inclusive leadership and our truly global studio network of strategists, experience designers and scientists, you will find your voice and have the support and flexibility required to bring your whole self to work and build an exceptional career.

Learn more about the Graduate Program

The Adelaide studio operates out of its self designed tower and precinct in the CBD, located on Kaurna Yarta (Kaurna Country). As Woods Bagot’s founding studio, established in 1869, Adelaide prides itself on continuing the visionary work of its founders – driven by a passion for fresh perspectives and designing for the future growth of its city and people.

Award winning projects across Adelaide include the South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI), 83 Pirie Street, BHP Adelaide and many more. Explore the studio.

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