Julia Manrique

Principal – Landscape Architecture
Sydney
NBRS Julia Manrique 2800x1800
Every project is a moment to improve something – an opportunity to achieve design excellence, challenge convention and make a difference by creating well-lived spaces.

Joining NBRS in 2022 as the Principal of the Landscape Architecture Discipline, Julia brings with her a wealth of knowledge from more than 12 years of experience in the industry. Fully capable of initiating projects through all phases, she is practiced in leading projects and managing large consultant teams from conceptual design, design development throughout construction documentation, and maintaining follow-up client communication.

Born and educated in Spain, Julia gained professional and practical experience in urban planning and public realm design after completing a Master’s degree in Architecture in Barcelona. Migrating to Australia in 2010, she then joined McGregor Coxall’s Sydney Studio as a Graduate Landscape Architect and underwent rapid promotion to Associate Director of the Landscape Architecture Discipline in the Sydney Studio. In this capacity, she led interdisciplinary teams in the delivery of a wide range of projects across Australia for both the public and private sectors.

Julia possesses great enthusiasm for Landscape Architecture, always seeking design excellence and challenging conventionalism to deliver award-winning, sustainable, inclusive and culturally respectful projects. Principles of sustainability, climate resilience and data-based thinking are key guides in the design and execution of her projects, as well as an understanding of and respect for the cultural sensitivities of First Nations People, a subject that she is deeply passionate about.

Regularly attending profession related conferences and discussions along with playing leading roles in Landscape Architecture and Architecture Design Review Panels at UTS and UNSW, Julia is committed to the promoting and advocating for the profession of Landscape Architecture. She has collaborated with the Australian Institute of Landscape Architects in presenting talks and lectures and been a member of the NSW AILA Awards Jury in 2022.

At the local level, Julia has mentored students, new graduates, and employees. As a senior female leader in the industry, she has a strong commitment to equality: leading by example, fostering new employees, and encouraging female colleagues to seek career advancement.