Studio Dao
Studio DAO, founded in 2022 by Max Hu and partners, is a multi-discipline design studio in Sydney offering services in architecture and interior design. Studio DAO’s portfolio includes feasibility planning, private residential dwellings, multi-unit residential developments, retail, commercial developments and fitouts.
The concept of DAO (also spelled TAO) is founded on Taoism - an ancient Chinese philosophical tradition of thought that focuses on the continuity and interaction between nature/universe and human beings. The word “DAO” also means a way, a journey or a path.
Our design philosophy is rooted in the pursuit of simplicity, functionality and sustainability with a humanistic approach, creating harmony between nature and architecture.
Architecture has the power to transform the way we live. We believe the works of architecture are discovered, not designed, therefore the creative process is a journey of discovery, offering people a haven and inspiring space to live and occupy.
Max Hu
Director / Nominated Architect
NSW Reg. No 10989
VIC Reg. No VIC00160
MArch (USYD)
Max Hu is an architect and co-founder of Studio DAO. Max had trained with Glenn Murcutt, Tonkin Zulaikha Greer and BVN Architecture in Sydney, Trace Architecture Office in Beijing and had led the design of different architecture practices prior to establishing Studio DAO.
With more than 10 years of professional expertise in the design thinking and building cultures in Australia, Max has worked with a plethora of clients in single and multi-residential, healthcare, education, workplace and developed a thorough understanding of design methodologies suited across several key portfolios.
Max has been demonstrating enormous proactivity and initiative in his professional practice. He is methodical, creative, and thorough in his approach to the design process. He is an enthusiastic architect who brings a wealth of creativity, conceptual thinking and technical ability to each project.
Max is a registered architect in NSW and Victoria.
Achievements
2010 Woodhead Prize - Architectural Communication (UNSW)
2011 Castle Mountain Prize - Glenn Murcutt Studio (UNSW)
2015 Australian Institute of Architects Structural Innovation Award (USYD)
2015 First Prize in Innovative Use of Digital Fabrication (USYD)
2018 Best Tall Building Award - Emblem Tower (BVN)
Erliananda Sekararum
Architectural Assistant
BArch (UII Yogyakarta)
Elda, an enthusiastic Architectural Assistant at Studio DAO, brings over 3 years of practical experience in the architectural realm. Her specialization lies in residential dwellings, interior design and commercial fit-outs, her versatility extends to healthcare facilities, spanning veterinary spaces, imaging centers, and hospitals, showcasing a diverse skill set.
Proficient in BIM software like Revit, Sketchup, and AutoCad, Elda seamlessly translates designs into reality. Her track record reflects a consistent ability to not only meet but surpass client expectations while ensuring strict adherence to building codes and regulations.
What sets Elda apart is her unique blend of problem-solving prowess and creative flair. Her approach to architectural design seamlessly combines innovative solutions with an eye for compliance, making her a standout designer at Studio DAO.
Mark Raymundo
Planning Director
Bplan (HONS) UNSW MUDD,
Grad Cert (Project Management) UTS
Cert IV Real Estate Practice TAFE
Mark is the first point of contact in exploring development opportunities for your property.
With over 16 years experience in town planning working for multiple Council’s in Sydney and in private consultancy, Mark has extensive knowledge and experience in the building industry with projects up to $100M.
Mark holds a Bachelor of Planning with Honours, Master of Urban Development and Design from the University of New South Wales and Graduate Certificate in Project Management from The University of Technology Sydney.
Citra Lorencia
Visulisation Artist
BArch PETRA CHRISTIAN UNIVERSITY
Citra is a passionate and talented visualisation artist with more than a decade of hands-on experience. Skilled in software such as SketchUp, 3ds Max, Corona, V-Ray, and Chaos Vantage, Citra consistently meets client expectations and assists them in visualising their designs effectively.