Team news: meet James

Tell us a little bit about yourself

Hi, I’m James. Born and raised in Melbourne and currently living in an apartment in Clifton Hill.

I just got back from a European holiday with friends where we visited Spain, Istanbul and Italy. It was great seeing several different cities and lifestyles, and how such old towns can remain so vibrant. It was also cool to see and experience how density can be done well, and people adapt to their surroundings.

In my down time, I enjoy staying active. My favourite hobby is golf where I’m in a pursuit to get my handicap as low as possible (currently 3). Other hobbies include a constant rotation between cycling, surfing, and snowboarding whenever I get a chance.

What’s your role with Hygge?

I’m a Development Manager, currently working towards planning and project launch of Chisholm Green in Black Hill, Ballarat. This project includes 37 carbon neutral townhomes designed by Porter Architects with a really unique seasonal landscape design by Acre Landscape Architects.

I was also involved in the inception of Humffray Street in Bakery Hill.

How did you get into property/planning?

Early working life was alongside a residential domestic builder, and a speciality architectural metalwork business. I then undertook a diploma of building and construction, and Bachelor of Construction Management at RMIT.

Through studies I commenced working with a large-scale private developer (Evolve development) where I met Hygge Director Joe. After a number of years working there, I went back to my domestic building roots and worked for Australia’s largest home-builder (Metricon).

After a short stint there, I joined the Hygge Team and spend the majority of my time in the Melbourne Prahran office whilst enjoying regular visits to Ballarat.

You currently sit on Outlook Committee for the Urban Development Industry Association (UDIA), Victoria.
Tell us a little about this.

The Victorian branch of the UDIA includes a number of professional committees activating expert knowledge and providing formal means to capture industry views.

The Outlook Committee is a diverse group of young industry professionals, committed to providing opportunities for active participation in the development industry through education, networking and professional development.

I’m on the Student Engagement and Events subcommittees so looking to develop awareness and build a new category of student members or create fun and engaging events for those who are already a part of the UDIA.

Image: James on his recent Europe trip