Profile

RDO is a design focussed architecture office in Surry Hills, Sydney. 

We find unique solutions to complex problems with seemingly impossible constraints. We find opportunities within the grittiest urban contexts and deliver innovative solutions. The more difficult the site, the happier we are.  We like people, and we listen carefully.

What we're good at:
> urban activation projects
> compact bars and cafes
> mid-scale hotels
> affordable housing

Who we are

Rob Harper is the director of RDO. He is an architect, educator and urbanist. In 2005, Rob founded RDO so he could help nice people enjoy the process of making architecture.

He has a calm ability to assimilate advice, solve complex problems and keep everyone happy. His rational approach is rigorous and buildable. He has particular interest in compact space and lighting. He vast experience with bars, cafes and places where people interact. He is keenly interested in the city, and currently teaches urban design at UNSW.

He has lectured on topics including sustainability, urban design, affordable housing and ergonomics. He currently leads a professional learning group for registered architects.

Rob currently sits on the YWCA Property Advisory Group, an expert panel providing pro-bono advice to that profit-for-purpose organisation.

Current experiments include real-time illustration projected onto architectural surfaces: the result is neither video nor still image.

Ethics & Approach

Ethics & Approach

RDO is comfortable working at every scale. We apply the same proven mode of thinking: we quickly work out what the underlying questions are, then dig deeper for opportunities.

Every project is a collaboration. We benefit from a close network of clever people we like to work with , and a tight list of tradies we trust.

We give away about 10% of what we earn; by donation, pro-bono & low-bono.

We do our best work for the nicest people.

Contact

Communication is everything.
02 9699 6969
PO Box 69, Newtown NSW 2042
63 Foveaux Street, Surry Hills NSW 2010

Nominated architect Rob Harper 8866