A legacy built over generations.

Across generations, Icon has evolved through the experience, relationships and projects that have shaped our business. Our history gives us perspective, but it is the way our people keep adapting, collaborating and delivering that continues to define what comes next.

Park House Abbotsford, an Icon residential and commercial project at dusk

Our heritage

Built over generations. Shaped by every chapter.

Icon’s story brings together more than 160 years of construction history, distinct Australian building legacies and a series of pivotal moments that expanded what the business could build and where it could work. This timeline traces the people, projects and decisions that shaped the Icon of today.

1856

Progress was there from the start.

Before establishing his company, Thomas Cockram supported Melbourne’s eight-hour movement, with his name later recognised at Trades Hall as one of its pioneers.
1861

Thomas Cockram & Co is founded.

Founded in Melbourne, the business began a construction lineage that has continued for more than 160 years.
1875–91

Landmarks that still stand.

The early business helped shape Melbourne through projects including Brighton and Fitzroy Primary Schools, the Grand Hotel now known as Hotel Windsor, the Princess Theatre and Eastern Hill Fire Station.
1985

Two historic builders become one.

Following the acquisition of Cockram by KG Hooker Builders in 1980, the businesses came together as Hooker Cockram, combining decades of experience across hospitals, universities, research and civic projects.
1992

Technical expertise goes global.

Cockram expanded into China with a sterile manufacturing facility for Pfizer, deepening its expertise in pharmaceutical, cleanroom and technically complex construction. A Sydney office followed in 1998.
1997

Icon Co begins its own chapter.

Founded in Melbourne, Icon Co built a strong reputation in residential construction and development before expanding across Australia’s eastern seaboard.
2015

Icon becomes part of Kajima.

Kajima Australia was established and Icon joined the Group, adding access to international construction research, technology and technical expertise while retaining its local delivery focus.
2017–19

Two strengths. One Icon.

Kajima acquired Cockram in 2017. By 2019, Icon Co and Cockram operated as one Icon, combining residential strength with specialist capability in health, research, pharmaceuticals and other complex sectors.