25 Years of DesignInc Adelaide: A Legacy of People-Centric Design
This year, DesignInc Adelaide celebrates 25 years of shaping spaces that are at the heart of community – places where people learn, heal, work, and connect.
The vibrant event brought together clients, collaborators, and team members at ILA – Immersive Light + Art. The evening captured the studio’s journey, reflecting a warm, inclusive atmosphere grounded in purpose.
From its beginnings as Geof Nairn Architects in 1976, through its evolution into DesignInc Adelaide at the start of 2001, the studio has remained committed to designing environments that enrich lives. With a portfolio spanning education, health, recreation, workplace, community, and defence, the Adelaide team has consistently placed people at the heart of every project.
We’re proud of our legacy and excited about our future. This milestone is a celebration of our people, our values, and our promise to continue designing for positive community impact.
Sonya Montgomerie
Director
The studio’s culture is built on values that guide every decision: integrity, collaboration, curiosity, and persistence. These values are not just aspirational – they’re embedded in the way the team works, mentors, and grows together.
Our approach is based upon authenticity. We listen, we learn, and we design with empathy. That ensures our spaces work meaningfully for the communities that use them.
Richard Stafford
Managing Director
DesignInc Adelaide’s commitment to sustainability is reflected in its Climate Active Certification for both services and operations. The studio’s Sustainability Action Plan outlines clear goals for reducing waste, energy use, and environmental impact on every building we design.
We believe good design, is sustainable design. Our responsibility is to create spaces that support both people and the planet.
Ben Luppino
Director | Sustainability Champion
Reconciliation is another cornerstone of the studio’s ethos. The Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan, endorsed by Reconciliation Australia, guides the team in building respectful relationships with First Nations communities and embedding cultural knowledge into design processes.
Our RAP is a commitment to walk together, side by side. It’s about listening, learning and creating opportunities.
Ben Luppino
Director | RAP Champion
The studio’s leadership development program, mentoring initiatives, and wellbeing support reflect a deliberately developmental culture. From flexible work arrangements to mental health resources, the Adelaide team fosters an environment where people can thrive.
Our studio culture is one of mutual respect and shared growth. We support each other professionally and personally, and that creates a space where creativity and collaboration flourish.
Ben Zoontjens
Director