From pricing uncertainty to burnout, many architects and Interior Designers find themselves overwhelmed - not by the creative process, but by the business side of practice.
Despite producing thoughtful, high-quality work, many are navigating complex client expectations, inconsistent cash flow, unpaid admin, and the pressure to grow without clear systems or support. For small teams and sole practitioners, the reality often means learning everything on the fly, making it harder to build sustainable momentum.
Over the past year, we’ve heard from hundreds of practices across Australia expressing the same challenges - working in isolation, undercharging for their time, and feeling unequipped to lead a business with confidence.
To help support these studios, a new national program is offering a practical alternative - one that focuses on clarity, mentorship, and building a resilient practice from the ground up.
Developed by CO-architecture - with the support of a wide network of industry advisors - The Accelerator is a mentor-led program designed for early-stage and independent professionals. It provides the strategic foundations, systems, and clarity needed to run an effective, design-led business.
With the majority of design professionals operating as sole practitioners or in small teams, many are doing the work without access to structured business training, reliable guidance, or peer support.
Expressions of Interest Now Open!
A Program Tailored to the Realities of Design Practice
Rather than focusing on business theory or growth at all costs, the Accelerator is grounded in the real-world conditions of small-scale architectural and interior design practice.
Delivered entirely online, the program includes CPD live sessions each week, with content developed and delivered by a network of over
30+ experienced mentors and advisors.
Topics covered include:
- Client Communication: Structure better briefing processes and manage client expectations with confidence
- Marketing & Visibility: Build your brand, attract the right work, and position your practice in the market
- Financial Management: Take control of cash flow, profit margins, and the financial health of your practice
- Proposals & Pitching: Craft compelling proposals and presentations that communicate value and win work
- Hiring & Leadership: Know when to hire, how to lead, and build a team aligned with your values
- Legal & Risk: Understand contracts, scope, insurance, and risk to protect your business
- AI & Emerging Tools: Leverage technology to streamline design, documentation, and practice operations
Participants also receive access to a suite of tools and templates, as well as CO-architecture memberships that provide direct access to CO-architecture’s client base, with over $100 million worth of projects posted to date.
Confirmed mentors include directors and leaders from practices such as Hassell, Bijl Architecture, Buchan, and Ewart Leaf, along with strategic advisors in law, finance, brand, and operations..
“There’s so much value in learning from those who’ve done it before—especially the mistakes,” says Toby Ewert of Ewert Advisory. “Programs like this give early-stage studios the guidance and peer support needed to build something resilient, with clarity and confidence.”
Senton Walsh-Rose from Build Px adds: “Starting a studio can feel like hiking up a mountain—the most successful founders have guides who’ve walked the path before. An accelerator like this gives you those guides, along with a community to grow alongside.”
Who It’s Designed For
The Accelerator is open to a broad group of practitioners, including:
- Emerging architects and designers transitioning from freelance or side projects
- Small practice leaders aiming to refine operations or reposition their offering
- Senior team members preparing to take on more business or leadership responsibility
Rather than being limited to those already running a formal business, the program has been intentionally designed to support a range of entry points and aspirations.
“A program like this gives emerging studios the structure, clarity, and support they need to grow confidently,” says Kate Frear and Steve Coster of The Advisory Studio. “It’s about building capability and unlocking the full potential of design—not just surviving, but thriving.”
Addressing an Industry-Wide Need
Amid rising operational pressures, shifting client expectations, and growing competition, the need for design-led professionals to access practical business support has never been more urgent.
With the program already 80% full, the strong response underscores a clear demand across the industry: architects and designers are actively seeking structure, strategy, and support to build more sustainable and resilient practices.
“Programs like this are essential for building resilient, focused studios,” says Melonie Bayl-Smith of Bijl Architecture. “When designers understand the ‘why’ behind their business, they spend less time on admin and more time doing the work that really matters.”
Peter Lee OAM of Hassell agrees: “When we help each other, we strengthen the entire profession. Supporting young designers to realise their potential isn’t just fulfilling—it’s essential to creating lasting impact and value.”
Expressions of Interest Now Open
Applications are now open. Places are limited to ensure a high-quality, personalised experience for all participants.
The program includes access for up to two team members, weekly live sessions (delivered online), CPD accreditation, and the opportunity to connect with a national network of mentors, advisors, and peers.
If you're ready to build a more resilient, design-led practice - with the right support behind you - now’s the time to get involved.
Questions? Contact us at Accelerator@co-architecture.com
Expressions of Interest Now Open!
