Dennis Nichols commenced practice as an Architect in Brisbane in 1980, as a sole practitioner initially specializing in residential work. Since that time, the firm has grown to a size at times exceeding 30 staff, and the work undertaken has become much broader in nature.
From a relatively early time, Dennis’ sense of commitment and attention to detail attracted work from various state government departments, particularly Works and Transport. This led to specialized skills being developed, particularly in the fields of public transport infrastructure and both primary and secondary school facilities. Other lines of work of significance included large scale industrial buildings. As a general practice, DN&A have also been primary consultant for small to medium scale commercial projects and a relatively large number of residential projects. Within the last few years, dramatic growth within the firm has resulted in an enrichment of DN&A’s capabilities due to the broad experience across the ranks of the senior staff, who generally all have experience in operating their own private practices. Of particular note are the skills acquired in the fields of landscape architecture, corridor and large scale site planning and design, and urban and streetscape design.
In 1984, Dennis acquired registration as an open class licensed Builder which facilitated the opportunity to engage in design and construct commissions. Our firm still undertakes this form of work on a selective basis. Over subsequent years it was found that there is no doubt that construction management experience enhances the skill of the designer.
Through on-going involvement in the detailed design of buildings accessible by the public, and in particular, intermodal transport facilities, DN&A in recent years has become a leading consultant in this country in the field of compliance with access requirements, including consideration of the expressed and implied requirements of the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA). As a result, assessing levels of compliance and designing subsequent rectification works are considered specialised services offered by DN&A.