Karl is a natural leader with a fast-ticking strategic mind at play and an irrepressible appetite for knowledge and understanding. With that said, Karl is not your traditional MD – he still has his hands and mind firmly in the architecture world, namely in the strategic end of projects – and his progression to MD was an organic process.
Having been with the company since its inception in 2001 and involved in every possible aspect of the studio, from the creative to the business side, Karl’s dexterity and vision saw him rise to the role. As MD, along with the strategic and HR facets of the position, he continues to drive the vision and values of the company, which are underpinned by a strong social conscience and desire to give back, both to his peers and the community.
His focus on values is also evident in his commitment to forward-thinking leadership. Karl’s proactive attitude, inquiring mind and resolve encourage strong leadership within the company and set the stage for open communication and future-forward ideas that benefit the team, clients and, ultimately, the community.
Awards
South Village - UDIA NSW Awards for Excellence
Result: Finalist
Year: 2020
Esplanade - PCA Innovation & Excellence Awards (NSW)
Result: Finalist
Year: 2022
Esplanade - UDIA NSW Awards for Excellence
"The Esplanade has it all. Adjoining a lake next to a shopping centre it is also a renewal of the old ice rink site. The high quality residential tower is complimented by a lower rise commercial office building over lakeside restaurants. Good architecture displays the two connected buildings appearing separate. The Judges were particularly impressed with the integration of the public waterfront and the buildings entry and forecourt. Almost fully occupied this fine development is a great example of mixed use success. It builds well on the success of Norwest mixed community."
- The UDIA NSW Awards Jury
Result: Winner
Year: 2021
East Village - UDIA NSW Awards for Excellence
Result: Commendation
Year: 2014
East Village - Sydney Design Awards
Result: Winner
Year: 2014
East Village - Urban Taskforce Development Excellence Awards
Result: Winner
Year: 2015
View some projects Karl May has worked on
The proposed redevelopment of Shelbourne Hotel will transform a landmark heritage building into an activated CBD mixed-use destination.
This mid-rise residential development in Queensland takes cues from the beachside locale with soft and flowing forms and a coastal palette of colours and materials.
A luxury resort in the Blue Mountains, surrounded by national parklands and containing 40 villas, a homestead building, gym, spa, stables and tennis courts.
A multi-phase redevelopment of existing Housing New South Wales and Council lands to deliver a new park-side masterplan. Featuring private and social housing units, a network of new streets, a 'village square' and a library.
An over-station development that integrates the new metro station with retail, commercial, community and residential uses. It will provide new public domain, pedestrian connections, greater transport options and space for cultural and community facilities.
A public-domain-led masterplan, creating an activated, vibrant and pedestrian-focused place. The design will provide new parks, public domain, retail and services, and integrated social, affordable, and private housing.
A mixed-use masterplan situated at the Kirrawee Brick Pit in Southern Sydney. The precinct features commercial, retail and residential spaces, and a new public park.
A large masterplanned community that has taken an under-utilised waterfront site with a poor urban identity, and created a highly successful mixed-use precinct.
The masterplan represents the next stage of the Wentworth Point urban renewal program, providing a vibrant mixed use precinct on the riverside site.
A unique masterplanned community, driving Norwest's urban rejuvenation and promoting a connection between residents and nature.
A waterfront mixed-use hub creating a place for the growing community of Norwest to live, eat, work and play. Esplanade offers waterfront restaurants, a retail precinct and commercial offices with views and winter gardens.
Facilitating a dynamic and exciting new model and unique mix of uses that provide benefits for both residents and the broader community.
