Speakers

Steven Donaghey is an accomplished architect and design leader with nearly 30 years of experience spanning project delivery, studio leadership, and built environment advocacy. As Studio Leader at Hames Sharley’s Sydney studio, Steven brings a distinguished record of work across a range of portfolios including community and culture, mixed use, multi-residential, retail, sport and education typologies, shaping spaces that respond meaningfully to the people who inhabit them.

Over the course of his career, Steven has contributed to a range of high-profile projects across New South Wales, the ACT, and the United Kingdom. His work on major projects including the Heffron Centre at Maroubra, the 388 George Street Redevelopment, and One Circular Quay in Sydney reflects a design sensibility that is both rigorous and deeply human-centred.

Curious, collaborative, and committed to inclusive design practice, Steven believes that architecture holds a unique power to improve both public and private spaces — strengthening the social fabric of communities. His approach is characterised by a desire to give voice to those often overlooked in the design process, ensuring that outcomes serve the broadest possible range of people.

In his leadership role at Hames Sharley, Steven is focused on cultivating a studio culture defined by strategic ambition, creative rigour, and the mentorship of emerging design talent. He is passionate about sharing the knowledge accumulated across his career to inspire the next generation of architects and built environment professionals.

An active contributor to the profession, Steven’s engagement extends beyond the studio.  He is a fellow member of the Australian Institute of Architects, achieved through his contributions to various associations within the industry and published articles.  He continues to shape the broader discourse around architecture, design leadership, and the role of the built environment in contemporary life.