MODE Design Expands Focus on Sports Architecture with Exciting Team Growth
SEptember 2024
MODE Design Expands Focus on Sports Architecture with Exciting Team Growth
We are thrilled to announce that Max Weston, Dion Gosling, and Greg Barker have joined forces at MODE Design to enhance our focus on sports architecture and planning across Australia.
Max Weston - Sydney Studio Manager - National Sport & Recreation Sector Lead
Max Weston has moved into the position of Sydney Studio Manager at MODE Design, bringing over 26 years of architectural and leadership experience. Max’s extensive design capabilities span multiple project types, including sport and recreation, commercial, mixed-use, education, residential, and affordable housing. His ability to build strong client relationships and drive new business growth makes him a valuable asset to the MODE team.
Previously, Max successfully managed MODE’s Darwin studio from 2007 to 2012. He is known for his exceptional tender writing skills, graphic presentation abilities, and overall practice management expertise. Now, as the Sydney Studio Manager and National Sport and Recreation Sector Lead, Maxis excited to contribute to expanding the studio’s portfolio and strengthening client relationships in the region
Dion Gosling OLY - Projects Lead, Sport & Recreation (VIC)
Dion Gosling, an Olympian and Commonwealth Games silver medallist in hockey, combines his 30 years of architectural experience with a deep understanding of sport and recreation facility design. His personal and professional background enables him to empathise with the needs of athletes, administrators, and coaches, delivering designs that are both functional and aspirational.
Dion has worked with international sports organisations such as FIH and FIFA, as well as local councils and commercial partners across Australia, New Zealand, and the Pacific. As co-founder of Third Place Thinking™, Dion is a thought leader in sustainable architecture, focusing on the social impact of sports facilities. His projects, ranging from community sports hubs to high-performance venues, reflect his commitment to creating long-lasting, community-centred solutions that balance sustainability, functionality, and design excellence.
Greg Barker – Associate Director - Project Lead, Sport & Recreation (QLD)
Greg Barker adds Project Lead for Sport & Recreation in Queensland to his portfolio, bringing over 12 years of architectural experience and a strong focus on infrastructure projects. His expertise in managing government projects, including public-private partnerships and delivering high-quality facilities makes him an ideal fit for this pivotal role. Greg has previously worked on significant sports projects, including the Redlands Regional Sports &Recreation Precinct, and more recently the Toowoomba Region Sports Precinct where his strategic approach and commitment to excellence ensured successful outcomes.
In his new position, Greg will leverage his extensive background in both sports architecture and community-focused design to enhance MODE’s portfolio in Queensland. Known for his exceptional communication and management skills, he is dedicated to collaborating with government clients and stakeholders to create innovative sports facilities that meet the needs of local communities. Greg is excited to lead projects that not only deliver on functionality but also foster social engagement and community spirit.
Together, this dynamic team will strengthen our capabilities in sports architecture and planning, ensuring we deliver innovative and impactful solutions for communities across Australia.
Welcome aboard, Max, Dion, and Greg! We’re excited to see the positive impact you will make on our projects and partnerships