Becoming a Registered Architect marks a significant milestone – one that reflects years of dedication and growth. For Marcus Hondrogiannis (left) and Nick Vorich (right), achieving this milestone was not just a professional step forward, but a moment to reflect on their design careers and the principles that continue to shape their work.

 

 

We sat down with Marcus and Nick to discuss what this achievement means to them, the lessons they’ve learned along the way and how architecture continues to both challenge and inspire them.

VIA: Congratulations to you both on achieving Registered Architect status! What does this milestone mean for you?

Marcus: Thank you! It’s the culmination of years of dedication and hands-on experience. While registration represents a professional achievement, I see it as a new beginning, inspiring me to continue learning, growing and striving for great architectural outcomes.

Nick: For me, it’s a validation of the years of work leading up to this point – from university to practice and through the rigorous registration process. It’s rewarding to reach this milestone and to step into the next phase of my design career.

VIA: What first drew you both to architecture, and how has that curiosity evolved?

Nick: I’ve always had a love for drawing and design. As a kid, I would sketch everything from concept cars to buildings I saw in cartoons. My curiosity deepened when I started learning about architectural history – my mum would tell me stories about Egyptian temples and Gothic cathedrals and I’d spend hours studying them. That early fascination turned into something more tangible when I realised how architecture blends creativity with real-world function.

Marcus: My path into architecture was shaped by a love for creativity and problem-solving. Whether it was painting, playing music or building things, I was always drawn to making. Over time, that creative curiosity evolved into a deep appreciation for how spaces influence experiences, shape emotions and bring people together.

VIA: How have your studies influenced your approach to architecture today?

Marcus: Studying architecture provided a foundation in design thinking, technical knowledge and problem-solving. But my biggest learning came from working in design practices alongside my studies. That experience taught me to balance creativity with practicality; to question ideas critically while always considering both functionality and end-user impact.

Nick: My studies helped me understand that architecture doesn’t exist in isolation; it’s shaped by so many external forces. Environmental factors, sustainability and materiality were always central in my studies, and those factors still heavily influence how I design today.

VIA: Which architectural styles or specific buildings have influenced you the most?

Nick: I’ve always appreciated the simple practicality of the modernist movement. A particular project that inspires me is the High Line in New York by Diller Scofidio + Renfro. It’s a brilliant example of adaptive reuse, transforming abandoned railway lines into a pedestrian-friendly garden. It rethinks how cities function, creating new social connections while seamlessly integrating biophilic design.

Marcus: I’m particularly inspired by the International Style, with its emphasis on simplicity, functionality and clean lines. Projects like the Villa Savoye by Le Corbusier and the Seagram Building by Mies van der Rohe showcase how minimalism and modern materials can create timeless, impactful spaces.

VIA: What’s the most valuable lesson you’ve learned so far in your career?

Marcus: The importance of going back to first principles. Architecture is layered with complexities, but when challenges arise, returning to the core purpose of a project brings clarity. It’s about interrogating design decisions, ensuring that every choice has a clear intent.

Nick: Learning to take criticism constructively. In both academia and practice, feedback is an essential part of growth as an architect. Within the VIA studio, the culture of mentorship and collaboration has made this process incredibly valuable.

VIA: How has VIA influenced your growth as an architect?

Marcus: I’ve been with VIA for almost five years now and it has shaped me both professionally and personally. Working across residential, masterplanning and mixed-use projects, I’ve refined my technical skills while also expanding my creative thinking. The mentorship here has been invaluable, pushing me to approach design that challenges conventional thinking.

Nick: The past three years at VIA have given me exposure to a wide range of projects and technical detailing that I wouldn’t have experienced otherwise. Working on mission critical buildings, data centres in particular, has strengthened my ability to think through complexity in a structured way. The collaborative culture here has been a huge part of my learning.

VIA: Looking ahead, what excites you most about the future of architecture?

Nick: I think adaptive reuse will be an increasingly critical part of architectural thinking. With sustainability and heritage conservation gaining more focus, finding ways to transform existing spaces rather than replacing them, has the potential to shape the future of built environments.

Marcus: The shift toward biophilic design and renewable materials is something I’m particularly excited about. The relationship between architecture and nature is evolving and I’m interested in how we can push those ideas further to create more responsive and sustainable spaces.

VIA: Finally, what advice would you give to those aspiring to become Registered Architects?

Nick: Get involved in as many aspects of practice as possible. Don’t just focus on your immediate tasks – engage in project discussions, ask questions and gain an understanding how design decisions are made. The broader your knowledge base, the smoother the registration process will be.

Marcus: Stay consistent and curious. The best way to prepare is to immerse yourself in an environment where you can observe, listen and take in as much as you can from the people around you. Registration isn’t just about passing an exam; it shapes a more in-depth understanding of the profession.

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For both Marcus and Nick, achieving Registered Architect status is not an endpoint; it’s the next chapter in their design careers. Their experiences, inspirations and lessons learned continue to shape the way they think, design and lead within the studio, contributing to a culture of collaboration and considered design.