Australian architecture practice Genton has opened a London studio, bringing 16 years of experience delivering major public, civic and infrastructure projects to a new base supporting its growth across Europe and the Middle East.
Project Name: London studio
Studio Name: Genton
The opening of the European Studio is driven by Genton’s ambition to bring its design capability, strategic thinking and Australian ingenuity to international markets.
“At Genton we have consistently delivered design excellence for our clients and the public. This launch marks Genton’s transition from an Australian practice into an international practice, sharing our creativity and expertise, expanding our scope and introducing exciting new partnerships,” says Steven Toia, Genton, Founder and Principal.
Genton’s recent work includes Powerhouse Parramatta, one of the world’s most significant new museum projects and proudly funded by the NSW Government. Awarded through an open international design competition in 2019 to the architectural team of Moreau Kusunoki (lead designer), Genton (local architect) and Arup engineering, the project is the largest investment in cultural infrastructure project in NSW since the Sydney Opera House.
Genton’s portfolio also includes Reservoir Station in Melbourne, whose striking, sustainably focused design received international recognition by winning the 2021 Prix Versailles World Architecture and Design Award for Special Prize Exterior.
Zak Barry will lead the European Studio and pursue design opportunities across the UK, Europe, and the Middle East. Barry previously spent nine years at Genton as a key member of the practice and was Genton’s project leader for the Powerhouse Parramatta design competition.
In 2024 he relocated to London to lead Marketing and Submissions for Woods Bagot. His deep knowledge of Genton’s culture, design philosophy and approach, together with first-hand experience of the European market, makes him an ideal leader for the new Genton studio.
“Europe has a deep culture of design quality in its civic buildings, and the region is undergoing a significant period of urban renewal as cities decarbonise,” says Barry. “Genton has a proven record of delivering high-quality public projects. We see a real opportunity to build new partnerships here and make a lasting contribution to cities across the region.”
