Between my undergraduate and postgraduate studies, I really struggled to understand architecture’s place in mob spaces and as a result, my place in architecture.
March 10, 2026
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, please be aware the Kaunitz Yeung Architecture website contains images of deceased persons.
The Kaunitz Yeung Architecture team acknowledges all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples across the nation.
We recognise the original Custodians of Country, their ongoing connection to the land, sky, seas, cultures and communities - paying our respects to Elders, past and present.
The Kaunitz Yeung Architecture team acknowledges all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples across the nation.
We recognise the original Custodians of Country, their ongoing connection to the land, sky, seas, cultures and communities - paying our respects to Elders, past and present.
Between my undergraduate and postgraduate studies, I really struggled to understand architecture’s place in mob spaces and as a result, my place in architecture.
David Kaunitz and I have spent almost 8 years discussing and re-discussing the complexities and ultimately value of architecture to First Nations communities. He has taught me architecture is a tool to support the self-determination of mob and our ongoing custodianship to Country. I wouldn’t be an architect without him. I’m not sure I’ll ever be able to fully express my gratitude for everything he’s taught me during this time.
Ka Wai Yeung has been nothing short of an inspiration. As a Director and architect first, and as a strong woman and mother. She’s shown me what it takes to avoid the pigeonholes of identity politics and move forward as practitioner. Her patience and generosity is beyond measure.
The practice and the team at Kaunitz Yeung Architecture, so much of the life I have now, so many of my opportunities have come out of the work I’ve been able to do in this team. A practice that values Indigenous knowledge system at every level and working within them to provide critical architecture to communities. Steve Johnson Anton Kouzmin Jasmine Jahani Anastasia U. Kiana Peat Karen Sangster (Le Provost) Samara Webster Rodrigo Mostaccero Shai Cowling Mona-Lisa Mthethwa Mark Anthony Olores Benjamin Vallejera Marc Ace Sabado Richard Siangco
It’s bittersweet that my time at Kaunitz Yeung Architecture has come to an end. I’m so grateful, immeasurably so. While I spend the coming months re-grounding myself in my communities and my whenua, I just want to say thank you