The architecture and design industry plays a crucial role in shaping urban environments and influencing the quality of life for communities. With a growing importance on sustainability and innovative design solutions, professionals in this field are tasked with meeting the evolving needs of clients while adhering to high standards of ethics and integrity. This sector requires a balance between creativity and practicality, as well as a commitment to ongoing improvement and the integration of new technologies.
Boris Kostura, the Managing Director, prioritizes ethical leadership and team growth, believing in leading by example. His approach involves fostering an environment where every individual is respected and given opportunities to thrive, regardless of their background. Alongside him, Shangyun Zhao, the Design Director, plays a significant role in shaping the organization’s vision, ensuring that creativity and practicality are seamlessly integrated into their projects.
At the forefront of innovative architectural solutions, Sharvain Projects stands out for its commitment to unique design and sustainable practices. The organization is recognized for its significant contributions to various landmark projects, demonstrating a keen ability to address complex design challenges. Through a focus on team development and cutting-edge techniques, it continues to set new standards in the industry, ultimately shaping the future of architectural design.
Commitment to Ethical Leadership and Team Growth
Mr. Boris views himself as a manager who leads by example, strictly adhering to business ethics. Sharvain Projects is an equal opportunities employer, aiming to provide a platform for individuals to grow in their roles. The company treats staff fairly, offers continuous encouragement, and facilitates processes that help the team meet both organizational and client expectations.
Mr. Boris believes in respecting people for their inherent rights, regardless of gender, origin, race, or background. In their bespoke work, the company’s motto is “patience is a virtue.” However, given the nature of their industry, where attention to detail is crucial, they strive to create a sense of urgency while maintaining that patience.
The Value of Ethical Management and Discretion
Real-time decision-making profoundly shapes business operations. While technology has been continuously advancing to streamline processes, history and the past still hold invaluable lessons that can inspire and guide us as thought leaders. Interestingly, reading through quotes from famous philosophers, it becomes clear that not much has changed in human nature over the centuries. The key to business success lies in keeping trade secrets, as clients often say, "keeping cards close to our chest" and not revealing too much until the product is refined and ready for presentation. The organization believes that an ethically astute management team is essential for overall business success.
Commitment to Innovative Design Solutions and Continuous Improvement
Mr. Boris maintains that the company remains focused on producing unique design solutions for bespoke buildings, consistently seeking innovative ways to address client briefs. This approach gives Sharvain Projects a competitive advantage. The company believes in ongoing improvement; outcomes are not due to chance but are the result of dedicated effort, particularly through strong design. Sharvain Projects aims to tackle emerging challenges with innovation. Knowledge is supported by creativity and imagination. The firm employs imaginative individuals who can think unconventionally, with project design teams and personnel who are highly skilled. Continuous training is provided throughout project cycles.
Showcasing Notable Architectural Achievements and Design Challenges
There are several notable examples of the company's capabilities: (1) Dr. Chau Chak Wing Building, UTS, Sydney; (2) Darling Harbor Live, Sydney; (3) 4 Points Hotel, Sydney; (4) MUEF building, Sydney; (5) AMP Building, Sydney; and (6) Liverpool Civic Place, Liverpool, NSW. If selecting two standout projects, the Dr. Chau Chak Wing building and the AMP Building are highlighted. Brochures for these two projects have been attached.
The Dr. Chau Chak Wing building is discussed in section 8. The AMP Building, also known as Quay Quarter Tower, was designed by the architectural firm 3XN from Copenhagen and won the international award for World Building of the Year in 2022. Quay Quarter Tower received this recognition at the fifteenth annual World Architecture Festival held at Lisbon’s FIL Exhibition Centre from November 30 to December 2, 2022.
For the design team, the main tasks involved integrating expressed sunshades with façade glazing and adjusting building envelope components to align with the original design intent. Bespoke shapes of sunshades were created to achieve the final architectural appearance.
Building an Expert Design Team for Streamlined Processes
The key to success lies in the expertise of a highly trained design team. Ms. Shangyun, the Design Director and equal business partner, handpicked the design team, which has expanded from an initial four personnel in 2005 to over 32 members today. This growth enables the team to streamline the design process and deliver complete documentation in fully computerized form, facilitating cost-effective production.
Adopting Sustainable Solutions for Energy Efficiency
The use of sustainable products and façade components has become a common requirement. Most buildings the company is involved in seek sustainable solutions and utilize energy-efficient façades to achieve 5-star ratings. This rating is typically attained by balancing façade performance with HVAC systems. One example of sustainable initiatives is the use of environmentally friendly components, such as “green aluminum,” produced using hydro-generated energy. Other initiatives include thermal insulation made from recycled or environmentally friendly materials, low VOC paint systems, insulated double or triple glazing with Low E coating, automation of operable façades with blinds, and the use of recycled materials for packaging along with recycling of packaging materials.
The Importance of Repeat Business for Growth and Success
Repeat business is essential for ongoing growth and success. By delivering bespoke projects on time, within budget, and to client satisfaction, clients return to the company, offering opportunities to participate in new projects for tender or on an exclusive basis.
Transforming Innovative Design into a Waterproof Façade System
Among the projects, the Dr. Chau Chak Wing building in Sydney, Ultimo, is perhaps the most bespoke. It is owned by the University of Technology Sydney (UTS), and the design concept was developed by architects of Gehry Partners (GP) from the USA. The main task involved transferring the initial design concept proposed by GP into a waterproof façade system while preserving the original design intent and geometry. Given the different climatic conditions in California, it was necessary to enhance the waterproofing performance of the façade to meet Australian standards and address Sydney's climate. Ms. Shangyun and her team managed this effectively, and despite the building's unconventional shape, no leaks were reported after its completion.
Emerging Trends in Sustainable and Smart Façade Solutions
Façade trends include sustainable solutions, integration between façades and HVAC systems, and automation of lighting. The development of bespoke smart façades has been anticipated for some time, and the market is gradually gaining an understanding of what is involved in smart façades.
A Vision for Legacy and Global Recognition in Design Innovation
Mr. Boris feels privileged to have formed a business partnership with Ms. Shangyun, who has been instrumental in achieving design success. The business of Sharvain Projects reflects the collaboration between Mr. Boris and Ms. Shangyun as they supplement one another. They share a common goal: ensuring that the legacy of Sharvain Projects is maintained beyond their productive years. They aspire to see Sharvain Projects recognized on a global scale?and?regarded by architects and clients as pioneers in smart façades and process automation.
Embracing Challenges and Setting New Design Trends
Perhaps the reason for the company’s current standing is its approach to tackling challenges, with nothing deemed impossible. There were instances when the team was asked if their work was "mission impossible," and their response was, "a kind of, but we will make it possible."
A sentiment from the past states, “Do not go where the path may lead; go instead where there is no path and leave the trail.” This reflects how the company is perceived in the marketplace. Many façades delivered have been unique and some have set new design trends for future projects. Looking ahead, trendsetting is a hallmark of the company’s reputation.
The two current major projects under construction exemplify this: the New Sydney Fish Markets, designed by the Danish architectural firm 3XN, and No 55 Pitt Street, Sydney, designed by the New York architectural practice ShoP Architects. Once completed, both will become iconic buildings in Sydney. Alongside previous projects like No 1 Blight Street, Sydney Law Building, Dr. Chau Chak Wing Building, Darling Harbor Live, 4 Points Hotel, MUEF building, AMP Building, and Liverpool Civic Place, they will further contribute to the company’s legacy.
