Our Team
Theresa Bower
Theresa Bower is a proud Wiradjuri women and director of Burrundi Design Studio, based on the Gold Coast QLD. She has spent the past 15 years’ working in several sectors of the built environment, from architecture, landscape design, art installation, research and academia.
Theresa has a Bachelor’s degree in Architecture and a Masters of Philosophy from the University of Queensland, on embedding First Nations culture into the built environment.
As the “Director” of Burrundi Design Studio Theresa’s work pushes the boundaries though a holistic design approach in translating First Nations knowledges and technologies, to embed cultural identity into the built environment. This approach enables a uniquely Australian vernacular to emerge though the design process, one that is grounded in Country.
Founder and Managing Director
Dean Johnson
Dean Johnson has 15 year’s experience in project and operations management across the construction industry. He is passionate about creating economic opportunities for First Nation people and promoting diversity and inclusion in the built environment.
Dean has a multitude of skills across business management, client relations and project facilitation and provides operational support across all of Burrundi Design projects.
Studio Manager
Jessica Kane is a researcher of architecture and architectural history. Her research predominately focuses on Aboriginal cultural landscapes and Indigenous lifeways. She has a Master of Architecture and a Master of Philosophy in architecture and has worked as a research assistant at the Aboriginal Environments Research Collaborative, University of Queensland for nine years.
Jess also works as an architectural consultant assisting First Nations people and designers to embed Aboriginal geography into contemporary urban projects. Jessica’s design philosophy is to produce architecture, which is environmentally, economically, socially and culturally responsive and believes that designing with Country is vital to achieving this.
Researcher and Architectural Graduate
Jessica Kane
Design and Engagement ConsultantTabori Tosusu
Tabori is an emerging designer and architecture student whose work is guided by culture, community, and a passion for creating meaningful change. Currently working as a Design Consultant - engagement at Burrundi Design Studio, he contributes to projects that reflect identity, belonging, and resilience through culturally grounded design.
Alongside his design work, Tabori serves as both a Māori and Pasifika Engagement Mentor and a School Engagement Mentor, supporting young people in their educational journeys. Through these roles, he fosters connection, confidence, and cultural pride while strengthening his communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills.
Eva Johnson
Eva is an emerging design consultant and graduate of Bachelor of Architectural Design. Her work is driven by sustainability, environmental responsibility, and a passion for art and culture. She believes design can be a catalyst for positive change and strives to create projects that are thoughtful, meaningful, and community-focused.
Alongside her design practice, she has experience in graphic design and digital content creation. She previously served as Social Media Manager for the Griffith Architecture Student Society (GASS), developing campaigns and visual content that strengthened engagement and community connection.
Design Consultant