Earlier this year, Architectural Graduate Sophie Tanghe joined our team at VIA Architects, bringing European influences and a passion for architecture that drives meaningful social change.

After relocating from Belgium to Melbourne, Sophie supports our studio’s work in creating considered architecture across multiple sectors. Her approach aligns with VIA’s mission to deliver human-centric design that meet diverse needs and contexts.

We sat down with Sophie to discuss her background, design inspirations and career aspirations.

VIA: Welcome to the team Sophie! What initially inspired you to pursue a career in architecture?

ST: Thank you! My interest in architecture started at a young age. I was fascinated by how built environments could influence the way people feel and how they interact.

During high school, I had the opportunity to study architecture at an arts academy alongside my regular education. By the time I was 16, I knew that architecture was what I was meant to do.

VIA: You recently moved from Belgium to Melbourne. How has the transition influenced your approach to architecture?

ST: Moving to Melbourne has been an exciting experience. The architecture and cultural contexts in Belgium and Australia are obviously quite different.

What remains consistent is my passion for architecture and its ability to drive social impact. I’m eager to bring my European influences to my work while learning from Australia’s unique architectural landscape.

VIA: We understand that your thesis focused on seniors living and was inspired by a personal experience. Can you tell us more about that?

ST: Yes, my thesis was inspired by my grandmother’s experiences with Alzheimer’s. I wanted to explore how architecture could improve the quality of her life and the lives of people who are experiencing a cognitive decline in general.

My project focused on the need to create built environments that promote independence, safety and wellbeing, while also creating opportunities for social interaction and intergenerational connection. This area of design is particularly important to me and I’m happy that it aligns with VIA’s work in the seniors living space.

VIA: What excites you most about being part of the VIA team?

ST: I’m really enjoying being part of a team that shares my commitment to making a positive social impact through architecture. VIA’s focus on community-centred projects really resonates with me.

I’m also happy to be working on integrated, multigenerational projects like TLC Healthcare | Mordialloc. This forward-thinking project facilitates connections between children, aged care residents and the broader community, fostering mutual learning and creating connected spaces where people of all ages can thrive.

VIA: How do you stay inspired as you grow in your architectural career?

ST: Staying curious is key. I believe architecture is constantly evolving and as an architect, you need to keep searching for fresh input and new perspectives.

Moving to Melbourne from Belgium was part of that desire to broaden my horizons and push myself into different environments. My goal is to continue learning and growing as an architect while working on meaningful projects that drive lasting change.

VIA: How do you see your role evolving at VIA, and what do you hope to achieve?

ST: I see my role at VIA as an opportunity to bring fresh ideas and perspectives from my experiences back home. I’m also eager to contribute to projects that enhance community living while continuing to collaborate with the talented studio team.

Sophie’s journey from Belgium to Melbourne brings fresh ideas and global influences to the studio. We’re excited to see how her experiences and insights shape her contributions to our projects and to see her thrive in her design career.