Following its successful growth and expansion into Dubai and Asia, Studio Ongarato has announced its move into the Americas market, appointing Craig Winterburn as Director of the Americas.

The move follows the studio’s engagement and work on a number of international hotel projects including Four Seasons Ottemachi Tokyo (2020), Desa Potatohead Bali (2020), W Shanghai (2016), W Chengdu (2020), W Melbourne (launching 2021), Ritz Carlton Melbourne (launching 2021) and Wallcliffe House, Margaret River Australia (launching 2025).

“Craig’s appointment marks an important milestone in the studio’s direction as we step up our engagement and expand into the Americas regions,” says co-founder and Strategy Director, Ronnen Goren.

In his new role, Winterburn will be based in Toronto and oversee Studio Ongarato’s growth strategy and client engagement in the North and South America regions, focusing on Canada, USA, Mexico, Caribbean, Central and South America. Bringing 25 years of experience in the signage and construction industry, Winterburn’s work for some of the largest sign companies in Australia and North America has seen him successfully manage numerous large-scale hospitality, mixed-use, retail and residential projects.

“Craig’s in-depth knowledge and long-term relationships across multiple facets of the industry sees him bring an exceptional skillset to the studio and we are very fortunate to have him onboard,” adds Goren.

Studio Ongarato has picked up a number of international accolades in recent times, including the Visual Identity prizes at AHEAD Asia 2018 and AHEAD Asia 2020 for Jackalope and Moss Hotel respectively.

According to co-founder and Creative Director Fabio Ongarato, the move into the Americas market is “a natural extension for the studio” as it moves into its 27th year and capitalises on its “extensive hotel and hospitality, property development, retail and cultural experience”.