Australian Institute of Architects acquires sole ownership of Architecture Media

The Australian Institute of Architects is now the sole owner of ArchitectureAu publisher Architecture Media, acquiring the company's remaining 50 percent stake as of 1 July 2024.

Architecture Media was co-founded by Ian Close and the Institute in 1987, with each party owning a 50 percent stake. Close was the company's managing director until 2021, when he stepped down and Jacinta Reedy was appointed CEO.

In addition to ArchitectureAu, Architecture Media publishes Architecture Australia, Houses and Landscape Architecture Australia magazines and organises The Architecture Symposium (under its Design Speaks brand), the Houses Awards, the Australian Interior Design Awards, the Eat Drink Design Awards, the AA Prize for Unbuilt Work and the ArchitectureAu Award for Social Impact.

Since its inception in 2011, ArchitectureAu has comprehensively covered Australia's built environment and provided architects a platform for discussing issues within the profession and at its intersection with the public domain. Architecture Australia has a 120-year history, which predates both Architecture Media and the Australian Institute of Architects and is recognised as the journal of record for architecture in Australia.

Architecture Media will remain a standalone business and retain editorial independence.

In a communique to members of the Institute, CEO Cameron Bruhn said, "As we approach our centenary year in 2029, this acquisition positions us to thrive for the next century and beyond, creating a comprehensive ecosystem of support, promotion, and engagement for the architectural profession."

"This change represents a natural evolution for Architecture Media," said Reedy. "As we enter this new phase, we wish Ian well and thank him for his leadership and contribution over more than 30 years. We will continue to strive for excellence in all that we do in the service of the built environment, with the support of the Institute."