Led by our talented team of Melbourne architects and designers, we work closely with clients to develop site-responsive, purpose-driven spaces that enhance the way people live, work, and connect. Our process balances creativity with clarity, pairing bold design thinking with a strong understanding of planning frameworks, construction methodologies, and end-user needs.
Whether a project is small-scale or complex, we place equal emphasis on form and function. Each design is guided by context, sustainability, and long-term value, delivering architecture that is not only beautiful, but also buildable, enduring, and environmentally responsible.
With architecture, interiors, and town planning all under one roof, our studio is uniquely positioned to offer a fully integrated design journey. This connected approach ensures consistency across every stage, from concept to completion, and results in cohesive, high-performing outcomes tailored to every client.
We work across residential, commercial, and mixed-use sectors throughout Melbourne and Geelong, bringing a holistic, detail-oriented approach to every project. From initial concept through to construction and completion, our team is committed to delivering thoughtful, buildable solutions that balance creativity with performance.
At the heart of CKA Studio is Chahid Kairouz, Managing Director, whose leadership has shaped the studio’s bold yet pragmatic design ethos. With decades of architectural and construction experience, Chahid brings a rare depth of knowledge to the table, uniting big-picture thinking with technical precision. His collaborative mindset and future-focused vision have been instrumental in establishing CKA Studio as a respected and forward-thinking practice known for clarity, capability, and consistency.
Under Chahid’s direction, we take pride in our integrated service model, where architecture, interior design, town planning, and construction knowledge all work in unison. This comprehensive approach leads to more cohesive design outcomes, smoother project delivery, and long-term value for our clients.
Chahid Kairouz is the founding force behind CKA Studio, bringing a dynamic blend of architectural vision and real-world construction expertise to every project. Before establishing the practice in 2010, Chahid honed his skills at leading firms Grocon and Equiset, where he managed large-scale, multi-million-dollar developments across Melbourne’s evolving urban landscape.
With a strong foundation in construction and project management, Chahid approaches design through a uniquely holistic lens—balancing creativity, technical rigour, and commercial insight. This broad perspective allows him to align stakeholder priorities, unlock value in complex briefs, and champion design outcomes that are both innovative and pragmatic.
A passionate advocate for sustainable design and emerging technologies, Chahid actively contributes to the evolution of planning policy while maintaining a steadfast commitment to economic feasibility. His work consistently reflects a bold architectural agenda—one that pushes boundaries without losing sight of real-world constraints.
With more than 25 years of industry experience — including over 15 years with the studio — James brings a depth of technical expertise to his role as Senior Associate. He is highly skilled in documentation, detail resolution and guiding complex projects from concept to completion, supported by clear communication and a pragmatic approach to problem-solving. As a senior leader, he mentors the team and strengthens the practice’s technical capability, ensuring coordinated, high-quality outcomes across multidisciplinary projects.
Zak is a registered architect and Senior Associate with more than 20 years of experience delivering high-end residential, commercial, community and mixed-use projects. His work spans every stage of the project lifecycle, from early feasibility and concept design through to documentation, site supervision and contract administration. With experience across both Australian urban contexts and large-scale international projects in the Middle East, Zak brings a considered, holistic approach to architectural delivery.
Giuseppe is a multi-disciplinary designer whose work bridges architecture and landscape, bringing a holistic approach to both residential and commercial projects.
He is skilled at integrating built form with natural surroundings, creating environments that are functional, enduring, and enriching for their users.
Guided by a belief that well-designed spaces elevate the human experience, Giuseppe focuses on crafting thoughtful, harmonious places that balance form, function, and context.
With more than 12 years’ experience across residential, commercial and mixed-use projects in Melbourne and abroad, Taina brings strong design leadership and technical depth to her role as Associate Architect at CKA Studio.
She leads the Glen Iris office, guiding teams through complex apartment, workplace and commercial developments from early concept through to completion.
Known for her collaborative approach and problem-solving mindset, Taina is committed to transforming ambitious ideas into well-crafted, functional spaces that serve their users beautifully.
Robert combines extensive experience in the UK and Australia with a deep technical expertise across education, healthcare, commercial, and residential projects.
Since joining CKA Studio in 2021, he has been instrumental in delivering medium-density and mixed-use residential developments, including the Abode Apartments in Malvern.
Now based in the Geelong office, Robert is focused on strengthening the practice’s regional presence and is highly regarded for his precision in documentation and construction detailing, as well as his ability to cultivate clear, collaborative relationships with clients and builders.
Lea is an accomplished architectural professional with a well-established focus on precise, high-quality documentation developed over 14 years in practice.
Her work spans concept design through to construction, with particular expertise in leading comprehensive drawing packages for medium to large developments.
Bringing a disciplined, detail-focused approach, Lea excels at translating design intent into technically sound, buildable solutions, ensuring quality, compliance and efficiency throughout the project lifecycle.
Shirantha is an architect whose work blends creative exploration with a strong commitment to sustainability and contextual responsiveness. Drawing on his interest in urban art and the philosophical foundations of architecture, he brings a thoughtful, ideas-driven approach to each project.
Skilled in advanced design software and BIM technologies, Shirantha combines conceptual ambition with technical clarity, striving to challenge convention and craft environmentally responsible spaces that resonate with their users.
Since joining the practice in 2018, Karen has contributed to a diverse range of residential, mixed-use and childcare projects, developing a particular strength in environments shaped by biophilic design principles.
She approaches each brief with creativity and precision, focusing on how space can elevate wellbeing and strengthen the connection between people and nature.
Known for her thoughtful design sensibility, Karen thrives on complex challenges and is committed to delivering projects that enrich the human experience.
Lea is an accomplished architectural professional with a well-established focus on precise, high-quality documentation developed over 14 years in practice.
Her work spans concept design through to construction, with particular expertise in leading comprehensive drawing packages for medium to large developments.
Bringing a disciplined, detail-focused approach, Lea excels at translating design intent into technically sound, buildable solutions, ensuring quality, compliance and efficiency throughout the project lifecycle.
Alberto has been a key member of CKA for over nine years, bringing more than 15 years of experience across residential and educational projects.
His pragmatic approach, combined with strong design expertise and a thorough understanding of planning and building regulations, ensures projects run smoothly from feasibility through to construction.
With a collaborative style, Alberto excels at coordinating with clients, consultants, and project teams to deliver high-quality outcomes across a diverse portfolio.
Neha is an experienced Architectural Graduate at CKA Studio, where she has contributed for the past 3.5 years.
Holding a Master of Architecture from the University of Newcastle, she brings a thoughtful balance of creativity and technical expertise to projects across all phases.
With a collaborative, hands-on approach, Neha supports design development, documentation, and coordination, helping to bring ideas to life and ensuring projects are delivered smoothly and successfully.
After completing his Master of Architecture and Urban Design at Swinburne University, Max is gaining hands-on experience across all stages of project delivery, from early design to documentation. With a background in design research and urban analysis, he brings a thoughtful, inquisitive approach to his work and enjoys problem-solving through collaborative discussion. Supported by the CKA team, Max is experiencing rapid professional growth and is motivated by the opportunity to contribute to purposeful, well-crafted architecture as he works toward his goal of becoming a registered architect.
Anthony is an architectural student completing his Master of Architecture at RMIT University, due to graduate in 2026. Since joining CKA Studio in late 2025, he has contributed to design development, documentation, and project coordination across all stages of delivery. Known for his enthusiasm and collaborative approach, Anthony brings energy and clarity to every project through discussion and teamwork, with a design interest in how inherited forms and references can be reinterpreted to produce depth and unexpected richness.
Neha is an experienced Architectural Graduate at CKA Studio, where she has contributed for the past 3.5 years.
Holding a Master of Architecture from the University of Newcastle, she brings a thoughtful balance of creativity and technical expertise to projects across all phases.
With a collaborative, hands-on approach, Neha supports design development, documentation, and coordination, helping to bring ideas to life and ensuring projects are delivered smoothly and successfully.
