Global design and architecture firm HDR has announced the appointment of Alison Potter as Design Principal in its Melbourne studio, marking a major milestone in the firm’s ongoing pursuit of design excellence.
Bringing over 20 years of extensive experience in architecture, master planning, and urban design, Alison joins HDR with a strong focus on regenerative design, innovation, and socially responsive outcomes.
She arrives from senior design leadership roles at renowned international firms including Grimshaw, Hassell, and Foster + Partners.
Her diverse portfolio spans multiple sectors, including health, transport, aviation, tourism, arts and culture, data centres, residential, and education, all deeply rooted in urban design and master planning.
“Joining HDR presents an exciting opportunity to deepen the dialogue around environmentally responsive architecture in highly complex and technical buildings,” Alison said.
“I’m looking forward to driving design outcomes that not only put its users at the centre, but are also innovative and deeply responsive to place, ecology, and community.”
In her new role, Alison will serve as a vital link between HDR’s global expertise and the local Australian market, focusing on infrastructure-led projects that transcend functionality to deliver meaningful social, environmental, and cultural value.
She will lead efforts to cultivate a strong design culture at HDR’s Melbourne studio, fostering an environment that empowers teams to question conventions, prototype solutions, and embrace collaboration.
“Design is not just a product – it’s a process of continuous exploration,” Alison added.
“What inspires me is the chance to shape a studio where design culture thrives, and ideas are brought to life through tactile, collaborative practices – from drawings on the wall to model-making and hands-on material testing.”
With access to HDR’s global resources and technical expertise, Alison will spearhead transformative projects across Australia, advancing innovation through the firm’s regenerative design framework, data-driven capabilities, and interdisciplinary collaboration.
“Alison’s appointment comes at a pivotal time for HDR in Melbourne,” said Huai Lim, Managing Principal of Architecture at HDR.
“Her leadership will be central to shaping our next phase of growth, embedding design excellence into our new studio, and strengthening our presence in a fast-evolving market.
“With Alison on board, we are well-positioned to deliver more ambitious, integrated, and sustainable outcomes for our clients and communities.”
Alison’s distinguished portfolio includes landmark projects such as the award-winning Masdar Institute of Science and Technology in Abu Dhabi, the New Mount Barker Hospital redevelopment, and the Fishermans Bend Innovation Precinct.
She holds accreditation as a Living Future Accredited Professional (LFA) and contributes nationally as a member of the Australian Institute of Architects’ National Climate Action and Sustainability Committee.
Additionally, Alison serves as a Design Review panellist for the Office of Design and Architecture South Australia (ODASA) and the City of Melbourne.
At HDR, Alison will collaborate closely with key leaders, including Managing Principal Huai Lim, Design Principal Simon Fleet, Federal Principal Tim Napper, Health Principal Conor Larkins, Education and Science Principal Graeme Spencer, Major Projects Principal Zig Peshos, alongside teams in Transportation and Building Engineering.
Alison Potter’s appointment underscores HDR’s deepening commitment to fostering design leadership that champions sustainability, innovation, and community-centred outcomes in Australia and beyond.