How Ardo’s Ash Roberts is bringing a global perspective to Australian residential design
With a career spanning high-profile international projects and luxury Australian developments, architect Ash Roberts is now leading a new wave of high-end residential design through his boutique practice, Ardo.
A specialist in contemporary residential design, architect Ash Roberts launched his architecture studio, Ardo in 2024, driven by a vision to create bespoke homes that not only embody refined craftsmanship but also reflect his clients’ expectations.
After over a decade working at globally renowned firms such as Foster + Partners and Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, Roberts brings a world-class sensibility to Australian residential architecture, blending technical precision and uncompromising attention to detail with a commitment to enduring design and deep understanding of human experience.
Originally from England, he began his architectural journey in 2011, building his early career in London under Norman Foster, and contributing to high-profile developments including ICD Brookfield Place in Dubai, Principal Tower in London, and the Greenwich Peninsula Upper Riverside.
After relocating to Australia, Roberts joined GURNER™ as Design Director in 2021. In this role, he led the design of Saint Mortitz in St Kilda and directed the individual customisation of over 130 luxury apartments, bridging architectural vision with development expertise.
As Founding Director of Ardo, he is deeply involved in every project, working closely with clients to design homes that capture their stories and reflect their lifestyles and aspirations.
"Launching my own practice is a chance to create a more personal scale of architecture with bespoke, timeless homes that connect with how people live,” Roberts says. “Integrity, restraint and timelessness guide my design approach and being rigorous and honest means creating spaces that are enduring rather than trendy.”
“For me, it’s about knowing when to hold back so a home feels calm and confident. These values shape every decision I make, and I love working with clients and collaborators to bring them to life," he adds.
As Ardo focuses on delivering bespoke residences and boutique wellness spaces across Melbourne, Roberts continues to shape a new standard in contemporary home design, defined by a lifestyle-driven approach to creating timeless architecture.
Photography by Timothy Kaye
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