Studio

John established BKA with John Kavanagh on the foundation of a 40-year career spanning the commercial, residential, master planning, government, and educational sectors. Over the years he has distinguished himself through the breadth of his expertise and ability to integrate modern pedagogies into educational facilities of all types and scales.

An active member of the architectural community, John has served as Councilor to the NSW Chapter of the AIA and is a past examiner of candidates for Board of Architects registration. He is passionate about advancing the profession and is a vocal supporter of gender equity and sustainable design practices.

Prior to establishing BKA with John Baker, John gained extensive experience in the highly competitive architectural landscapes of London and Sydney. His ability to clearly visualise the unique possibilities of every site is partnered with a comprehensive technical skill set that enables him to translate these possibilities faithfully into reality.

Alongside championing sustainable design and architectural innovation, John takes a keen interest in nurturing the next generation of industry talent. In addition to tutoring regularly at the University of Technology Sydney, he provides support and advice to early career architects as part of the Australian Institute of Architects’ mentorship scheme.

Silvina has been a core part of the BKA team for nearly two decades, during which time she has been a key driving force behind the practice’s growth and evolution. Based in our North Coast studio, she takes a flexible and highly efficient approach to designing across a breadth of sectors including education, hospitality, and single- and multiple-dwelling residential.

A clear communicator and consummate professional, Silvina collaborates closely with clients, consultants, and community members alike to achieve the best possible outcome in every project and overcome the challenges entailed in managing the various needs of multiple stakeholders.

Allison joined BKA in 2004 as an outstanding student from the University of Newcastle and has since developed expertise across a variety of architectural typologies. As the Director of our Newcastle office, she is actively involved in all project stages from concept design through to detailed design, documentation, and construction.

For several years, Allison was a member of BKA’s Dubai office, where she undertook large-scale educational, commercial, and multi-residential projects. Since returning to Australia she has further developed her skills in each of these sectors and proven integral to the practice’s expansion.

Having worked throughout Australia, Venezuela, India, and Spain, Jesus brings over 14 years’ architectural and urban design experience to the BKA team. He has a nuanced understanding of the full architectural delivery process from feasibility through to detailing and contract administration, alongside a proven ability to manage client relationships, multi-disciplinary consultant teams, statutory approvals processes, and contractors on site.

An adaptable all-rounder and team leader, Jesus works across a diverse range of sectors including educational, mixed-use, and multi-residential, in addition to undertaking affordable housing and heritage-sensitive developments throughout Sydney.

Ashwin is a highly skilled architect with over 12 years of local and international experience across a wide range of typologies. Since joining BKA in 2017, he has played a key role in numerous education projects, university facilities, and community buildings, demonstrating strong leadership and creativity.

Ashwin is adept in all aspects of the architectural process, from conception to completion. He has expertise in developing practical and economical documentation, and ensuring quality across projects. His excellent communication skills and work ethic enable him to build strong collaborative relationships with clients and stakeholders to deliver high-quality design solutions.