A New Era for Albert Mo Architects

Words by Aimee O’Keefe
Photography by Derek Swalwell
Photography by Shannon McGrath
Visualisations by Albert Mo Architects
Visualisations by Gavin Scott
A New Era For Albert Mo Architects News Feature The Local Project Image (1)

Albert Mo has announced his new practice, Albert Mo Architects (AMoA), after 23 years of Architects EAT. The studio will explore the idea of home and designing for the senses, with a focus on mid-century modern houses.

Deciding to pursue a new venture has not been easy, but Mo believes it is the right decision for both him and Architects EAT. “I’ve spent the last 23 years building a successful, medium-sized practice; Australian Design Review called us one of Australia’s most beloved and successful small practices,” he says. So while Architects EAT may be closing its doors, its impact and the many lessons Mo learnt during his time there remain.

An avid believer that a home is a haven that caters to the individual and their wellbeing, Mo strives to reflect this in his practice.

While Mo’s inspiration to pursue AMoA stemmed from various sources, he reflects on how the processes of designing his own home, Connected House, reignited his love of residential architecture. “Now that I’m older and have experience designing for myself again, it gives me a well-rounded perspective on the challenges and joys in designing houses,” says Mo. He wanted to translate the idea of a home – which is so evident to Connected House – into his designs and create spaces that are not just functional but nurturing and supportive of the activities within them. An avid believer that a home is a haven that caters to the individual and their wellbeing, Mo strives to reflect this in his practice. “No two homes I design are the same and there is no signature style.”

Similarly, the ethos and design approach of AMoA stems from Mo’s passions and personal interests, especially those relating to phenomenology and how people experience a certain space. “I’ve been interested in this concept for as long as I remember and I’ve been using it as a guiding principle on all the houses that I’ve designed,” says Mo.  At the same time, Mo saw this new venture as an opportunity to explore his passion for mid-century modern design. Having renovated his own contemporary mid-century home, he hopes to help restore, renovate and modernise similar homes while making them more environmentally sustainable.

Choosing to focus on residential architecture, Mo is prioritising creative control, client connection and a sustainable work style.

Choosing to focus on residential architecture, Mo is prioritising creative control, client connection and a sustainable work style. Taking a more personal approach, AMoA hopes to develop a deeper understanding of a client’s vision and lifestyle. “Additionally, the absence of layers of administration allows faster and better decision-making and a more agile design process,” says Mo.

More than anything, Mo is excited to establish a clear voice through his new practice – one that is a true extension of his architectural vision. “In my previous practice, we tried to be everything to everyone, following other people, and the result was a disingenuous and disjointed voice and portfolio,” he says. The new venture isn’t just about design for Mo; it’s about having a platform to share his unique perspective on architecture. “With a focused vision and a clear message, I’m confident I will create impactful and meaningful architecture that resonates with both myself and my clients.”

Born from a desire to create meaningful spaces and communicate unique insights, the new venture is an exciting injection into the Australian architectural landscape.

Born from a desire to create meaningful spaces and communicate unique insights, the new venture is an exciting injection into the Australian architectural landscape. With countless residential projects already underway, Mo is also working with Country Road for their new concept store, which leverages the concept of home. “AMoA’s success will be built on a strong reputation for high-quality, efficient and expressive design, allowing me to thrive within a smaller-scale practice,” says Mo. With this in mind, Mo hopes to continue making a positive impact for both his clients and himself.