Finding business treasures in Norwood: Award-winning architects

Tucked away in the creative heart of Norwood, SMFA (Stallard Meek Flightpath Architects) is quietly shaping some of Adelaide’s most thoughtful, community-driven spaces.

What began as a bold vision between two founding directors has grown into a multidisciplinary studio of over 40 passionate professionals – all united by a deep respect for heritage, a love of great design and a strong commitment to shaping a more sustainable and inclusive urban future.

In this Q&A, we sat down with the SMFA team to explore their journey, their most meaningful projects, and the values that continue to guide their work across South Australia and beyond.

From award-winning public spaces to future-focused private homes, their story is one of collaboration, creativity, and purpose.

 

You’re somewhat of a hidden gem here in the Norwood suburbs — can you tell us a bit about how the firm started, when it started and why you chose this location? 

While we might be a bit tucked away in Norwood, we’ve got a story behind us.

Stallard Meek Architects was originally formed in 2017 by founding Directors Stuart Stallard and Scott Meek. At the time, the team was operating out of a rented space in North Adelaide that was nearing the end of its lease, and had reached full capacity.

During the search for a new office, Scott came across a small tenancy on the ground floor of an old building on Charles Street.

When we visited the site, we were given a full tour and shown the large, open shell on the first floor.

It took our breath away. We immediately asked the landlord if we could take the space, and within months had fitted it out and moved in with our team of nine.

Over the following three years, the practice steadily grew, reaching 11 staff and building a strong reputation.

In April 2021, we merged with Flightpath Architects to form SMFA, doubling in size to a team of 24.

The merger brought new opportunities, expanded our project portfolio, and strengthened our relationships with government bodies and industry partners.

Our relocation to Norwood marked a new chapter. We reimagined a warehouse on Charles Street into a light-filled, open-plan studio that reflects our creative and collaborative culture.

Just a short walk to The Parade, Kensington Road, and Victoria Park, our studio enjoys all the perks of a city-fringe location, without the chaos of the CBD.

Today, SMFA is home to 42 talented and passionate individuals - and counting.

 

Your firm has built a strong reputation in Adelaide — what do you think sets your approach apart from other architectural studios?

Our strength lies in being a multi-disciplinary studio.

What sets us apart is the scale of in-house expertise we offer - spanning Architecture, Landscape Architecture, Heritage, Interior Design, and Graphic Design.

This integrated approach allows us to deliver projects that are not only beautifully designed but also well-resolved, functional, and contextually informed from every angle.

Equally important is our studio culture.

We’ve built a workplace where collaboration, and personal development are genuinely prioritised.

We understand that a fulfilling career is about more than just work; it’s about balance, development, and culture.

With benefits such as flexible working arrangements, growth and development opportunities, a supportive working culture, and enhanced parental leave, we’re proud to offer a workplace where skills, purpose, and relationships come together, ensuring our team members achieve both professional success and personal fulfilment.

We value diversity and the fresh thinking it brings, encouraging everyone at SMFA to contribute their unique perspectives.

We’re also committed to giving back through the Stallard Meek Flightpath Foundation (SMFF), supporting initiatives such as NAWIC’s International Women’s Day events, university exhibitions, and important community programs.

It all reflects our belief that great design starts with great people and strong values.

Your work has reached across Adelaide — what are some local projects you’re most proud of?

One of the local projects we’re especially proud of is the William’s Residence in St Peters, led by James Lam, a Senior Associate here at SMFA.

This project, soon to be featured on Grand Designs Transformations, involved a two-storey extension to a character home in one of Adelaide’s historic suburbs–image below.

It’s a thoughtful blend of heritage charm and modern functionality, designed as a forever home for our clients. Sustainability was central to the design, with passive environmental strategies, energy-efficient systems, and rainwater harvesting contributing to a high-performing, environmentally responsible outcome.

Another standout is the St Peters Precinct Redevelopment, delivered in collaboration with Phillips/Pilkington Architects.

Recognised with commendation awards for both Heritage Architecture and Public Architecture by the AIA SA Chapter, the project demonstrates our commitment to place-sensitive design and revitalising community spaces.

We’re also proud to be working with the City of Burnside on the regeneration of the iconic Regal Theatre Precinct.

The masterplan emphasises heritage preservation while enhancing functionality for film, live performance, and broader community use.

From improved accessibility and upgraded facilities to a new central plaza and landscaped outdoor areas, the revitalisation supports cultural vibrancy and long-term sustainability of this much-loved local landmark.

Can you tell us about a project that really reflects your values as a firm? What challenges did you overcome to bring it to life?

One project that truly reflects our values as a firm is a residential restoration on Mill Street in Dulwich.

The home, a beautiful single-storey heritage residence had sadly fallen into disrepair over the years. Our client came to us with a simple brief: restore the original building and make it functional for a growing family of four.

What began as a professional relationship soon evolved into a close friendship, which made the project even more meaningful.

At the heart of the design was a deep respect for the existing structure.

We focused on retaining and restoring as much of the original fabric as possible, bringing its historic character back to life, while carefully integrating a rear extension that challenged the typical idea of a “residential box.”

It was about creating something new without overshadowing the old.

The project demonstrates the values the business is based on; working with what exists, designing for real people and real lives, and, above all, listening.

It’s this client-focused, context-sensitive approach that continues to guide how we work today.

How do you see your work contributing to the future of Adelaide’s urban landscape — from sustainability to community-focused design?

At SMFA, our multidisciplinary approach allows us to bring a diverse skillset to every project, ensuring that sustainability and community-focused outcomes are embedded from the outset.

We pride ourselves on staying at the forefront of sustainable design practices, supported by our dedicated in-house Sustainability team, who guide projects to meet and exceed evolving environmental regulations, particularly as we see increased demand in areas such as aged care and residential developments.

As Adelaide’s population continues to grow, we see our work shaping the urban landscape by creating spaces that are not only environmentally responsible but also foster stronger community connections.

From adaptive reuse projects to new community and residential developments, our designs aim to enhance liveability, promote social interaction, and contribute to a resilient and future-focused city.

What’s something people might be surprised to learn about your firm or your work?

Our team proudly represents eleven different nationalities.

Adelaide has offered incredible opportunities for learning, developing and raising families. We are fortunate to attract people from diverse backgrounds who are passionate about giving back to this wonderful country, state, and local community.

What’s your view on the current design and development trends in Adelaide — and how are you responding to them?

Adelaide’s design and development landscape is shifting to reflect society’s evolving expectations often ahead of regulatory change.

While energy efficiency, insulation, and housing for the aging population, design remain key drivers. What’s really standing out to us is the push for inclusivity and access.

We’re seeing growing demand for sports facilities that properly accommodate women and people with disabilities, homes and public spaces that offer better accessibility, and play areas designed for all users.

Our response has been to design with empathy, ensuring spaces serve the needs of today while being adaptable for tomorrow.

Aesthetically, there’s been a noticeable return to brickwork, but in more sculptural, expressive forms.

Curved elements are becoming more frequent, softening built environments, and we’re embracing locally sourced, sustainable materials throughout our projects to reduce our carbon foot imprint.

For aspiring architects or design lovers in Adelaide, what advice would you give about creating meaningful work and staying true to your vision?

We believe if you surround yourself with people who respect the design process, the quality of your work will always be influenced by the company you keep.

Choose collaborators who value communication and creativity.

Meaningful work doesn’t happen in a vacuum; it grows from mutual trust, aligned values, and a shared commitment to quality. And most importantly, stay curious and back your design intuition, it's your most valuable tool.

 

Explore more of SMFA’s work or connect with the team. Whether you're dreaming up your next project or simply love great design, there’s a lot to admire – and even more to learn – from this talented Adelaide studio.

Visit today!

stallard meek flightpath architects
65 Charles Street, Norwood
W: sm-f.com.au
T: 08 8211 6355