Melbourne is widely regarded as Australia’s design capital, known for its vibrant laneways, heritage buildings, and striking contemporary architecture. From innovative skyscrapers and cultural landmarks to boutique residential projects and sustainable urban design, Melbourne’s architects set national and international benchmarks. Here we feature five fantastic architecture firms in Melbourne, each with a strong reputation for creativity, technical skill, and visionary design.
Our Top Five Melbourne Architecture Firms
Bates Smart
Headquarters: Melbourne & Sydney
Phone: +61 (0)3 9693 0000
Services: Residential towers, commercial, healthcare, interior design
Bates Smart is one of Australia’s oldest and most respected firms, delivering landmark projects such as Crown Towers Melbourne and Collins House. Known for luxury design and civic projects alike.
Denton Corker Marshall
Headquarters: Melbourne, with offices in Sydney, London, and Jakarta
Phone: +61 (0)3 9614 1822
Services: Civic, cultural, urban design, residential
Denton Corker Marshall is behind some of Melbourne’s most iconic landmarks, including the Melbourne Museum and Bolte Bridge, blending bold form with functional design.
FJMT Studio (Francis-Jones Morehen Thorp)
Headquarters: Melbourne & Sydney
Phone: +61 (0)3 9690 4400
Services: Civic, cultural, education, sustainable design
FJMT Studio is acclaimed for socially responsible architecture, with projects across Melbourne’s cultural and community landscape that focus on sustainability and human-centred design.
Woods Bagot
Headquarters: Melbourne, Adelaide, with offices worldwide
Phone: +61 (0)3 9663 5455
Services: Commercial, residential, masterplanning, interior design
Woods Bagot is a global design firm with a strong Melbourne presence, delivering large-scale developments including office towers, airports, and mixed-use precincts.
Aspect Studios
Headquarters: Melbourne, Sydney, Adelaide, Brisbane, Perth
Phone: +61 (0)3 9417 6840
Services: Landscape architecture, urban design, masterplanning
Aspect Studios specialises in integrating landscape and architecture, with projects such as Melbourne’s Prahran Square and Docklands waterfront redevelopment.
Areas Covered in Melbourne
- Inner City: CBD, Southbank, Docklands
- North Melbourne: Carlton, Fitzroy, Brunswick
- South Melbourne: St Kilda, South Yarra, Prahran
- Eastern Suburbs: Richmond, Hawthorn, Camberwell
- Western Suburbs: Footscray, Williamstown, Sunshine
Architectural Services in Melbourne
- Residential design and high-rise apartments
- Commercial and corporate towers
- Cultural and civic buildings
- Healthcare and education facilities
- Heritage conservation and adaptive reuse
- Urban regeneration and masterplanning
- Sustainable and eco-friendly architecture (Green Star, NABERS)
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to hire an architect in Melbourne?
Architects in Melbourne typically charge 6–12% of the total project cost, though fixed fees or hourly rates may be available for smaller works.
Do Melbourne architects provide free consultations?
Some firms offer free initial consultations, while others may charge for detailed feasibility and design studies.
What qualifications must Melbourne architects hold?
Architects must be registered with the Architects Registration Board of Victoria (ARBV) and many are members of the AIA.
Do architects in Melbourne work on heritage buildings?
Yes, many specialise in conservation and adaptive reuse of Melbourne’s historic terraces and industrial buildings.
Do architects manage planning applications?
Most firms handle local council planning applications, permits, and building compliance on behalf of clients.
How long does an architectural project take?
Residential projects may take 6–12 months, while large commercial and civic projects may run for several years.
Do Melbourne architects work internationally?
Yes, many practices such as Woods Bagot and Denton Corker Marshall have a strong global presence.
What sustainability standards are common in Melbourne?
Green Star, NABERS, WELL, and Passive House certifications are widely adopted in Melbourne architecture.
What’s the difference between an architect and a building designer?
An architect is a legally registered professional, while building designers may not hold the same accreditation but can provide valuable design services.
How do I choose the best architect in Melbourne?
Check ARBV registration, review portfolios, read client testimonials, and compare detailed proposals.