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Professional Architects Kurvin Virahsawmy and Matthew Robson have advanced to Associate roles, marking their next step in growth with the studio. Since joining dhk in February 2020 and December 2022 respectively, they have delivered significant contributions to some of dhk’s landmark projects, including a luxury residential development in the United Arab Emirates and Ellipse Waterfall, a luxury high-rise apartment development for Tricolt and Attacq in Johannesburg.
Senior Interior Designer Reynier Krause was also promoted to Associate within the dhk Interior Design (dhki) team. He has played a pivotal role in the creative design and implementation of several interior design projects for some of dhki’s blue-chip clients.
The promotions offer expanded roles for the new leaders, as they will be driving the continued delivery of considered architectural, urban and interior design projects.
These promotions reflect a strategy of expansion within the studio. In April 2024, seasoned architect Martin Lardner-Burke, who leads the Johannesburg studio alongside Founding Partner Peter Fehrsen, was appointed as a partner of dhk. Also last year, architects Sarah Tarr and Francois Hugo were promoted to Associate.
Overall, nine partners lead dhk’s team across two offices, supported by the broader management team of directors, senior associates and associates.
In congratulating the new leadership, Renske Haller, dhk Partner and Managing Director, emphasised the multidisciplinary studio’s commitment to recognising talent and nurturing growth. Being able to attract, retain and grow a talented team to deliver projects of various scales across multiple sectors in multiple locations simultaneously sets the studio apart.
“On behalf of the Board of Directors, I am delighted to welcome Michelle, Daphne, Daniel, Vahin, Kurvin and Matthew to the management team at dhk, and to Reynier Krause who joins the leadership of dhki. They have all excelled in their fields, making their mark on some of our most significant projects. We’re proud of their achievements and are looking forward to seeing them grow even more as studio leaders.”
“We believe in helping our people succeed. We want to see their talents and creativity flourish as they push boundaries in pursuit of design excellence,” says Executive Chairman Derick Henstra.
The dhk studio has nearly doubled in size in the last few years. “We are very proud of our people and are committed to supporting their career growth across the board. Succession planning is an important component in our growth and development strategy. These promotions recognise the tenacity and leadership shown by each person in their project delivery. Their appointments boost our management capabilities and will drive the sustainable growth of the business generally,” says Haller.
Lisa Bridgeford, Director of dhki, says: “Reynier’s appointment comes at an exciting time as dhki continues to grow, with an expanding portfolio of hospitality, commercial, education and residential projects.”