About Our Practice
Architecture shaped by place, people and purpose
Shaw Mackenzie Architects Pty Ltd is a Melbourne-based architecture and building design practice delivering thoughtful, buildable design across Victoria.
Our story
Shaw Mackenzie Architects Pty Ltd was founded on a simple conviction: good architecture should be grounded in the everyday lives of the people who use it. From our base in Melbourne VIC, we work with homeowners, developers and businesses across the city's inner suburbs and outer growth corridors, designing buildings that respond to their site, their climate and their community.
Our practice brings together registered architectural expertise and practical building design experience. That combination means our drawings are not only beautiful on paper — they are resolved, documented and prepared with construction in mind. We guide projects from the first site walk-through and concept sketches, through town planning and building permits, to documentation that builders can price and construct with confidence.
Over the years we have designed renovations, extensions, new homes, townhouse developments and light commercial fit-outs. Every project, regardless of scale, receives the same careful attention: we listen first, design deliberately, and communicate clearly at every stage.
Our values
Four principles guide the way we practise architecture and building design:
Design with integrity
We design what we would be proud to live or work in ourselves. Every proposal is honest about its budget, its site constraints and its long-term performance.
Buildability first
Good design must be able to be constructed. We document thoroughly and coordinate with consultants so builders receive clear, complete information.
Respect for place
Melbourne's neighbourhoods each have their own character. We design additions and new buildings that sit comfortably within their streetscape and landscape.
Clear communication
Planning and building processes can feel daunting. We explain each step in plain language, keep clients informed, and never leave you guessing about the next milestone.
How we work
Our process is structured but never rigid. It begins with a conversation about your site, your brief and your budget. From there we prepare concept designs, refine them with your feedback, and manage the approvals pathway — whether that is a planning application to your local council or a building permit through a registered building surveyor.
We believe sustainable design is simply good design. Passive solar orientation, natural ventilation, sensible insulation and durable materials are considered from the very first sketch, not bolted on at the end. The result is buildings that are comfortable to occupy and economical to run.
Company credentials
Shaw Mackenzie Architects Pty Ltd
ABN: 96 702 678 064
Location: Melbourne VIC, Australia
Services: Architecture and building design, planning permit documentation, building permit drawings, project coordination
Let's talk about your project
Whether you are planning a renovation, a new home or a commercial fit-out, we would welcome the opportunity to discuss it with you.