Architects globally recognised for their award winning design

The Architecture Studio Sydney looks to for unique design with international appeal TELL US ABOUT YOUR PROJECT

Architects globally recognised for their award winning design

The Architecture Studio Sydney looks to for unique design with international appeal TELL US ABOUT YOUR PROJECT

Architects globally recognised for their award winning design

The Architecture Studio Sydney looks to for unique design with international appeal TELL US ABOUT YOUR PROJECT

Architects globally recognised for their award winning design

The Architecture Studio Sydney looks to for unique design with international appeal TELL US ABOUT YOUR PROJECT
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Our Services


Residential Architecture

Residential Architects Sydney celebrates for timeless style

Realise your dream home with architects who understand your vision. Whether you build from the ground up or rebuild your existing home, collaborate with us on creating a home that is unique to you and built around your preferences, lifestyle and location.


Commercial Architecture

Commercial Architects Sydney can rely on for innovative contemporary spaces

Create ideal, functional environments for your team and clients according to your industry and business type. Count on us for every stage of development for your commercial property from preliminary design to construction and handover. We can also assist you with regulatory compliance and other such requirements.

Our Work

Explore our Residential and Commercial Projects

Bellevue


SEE PROJECT

Highbrook


SEE PROJECT

Stewart


SEE PROJECT

Tili Winery


SEE PROJECT

Cliffedge


SEE PROJECT

Palmerston


SEE PROJECT

Press

How We Work

1
SPICER ARCHITECTURE

Preliminary Design Phase









1

Sketch Design Phase

Concept Development

  • Discuss the brief with client to understand their vision and requirements.
  • Creating initial sketches and conceptual designs that align with the client’s vision and budget.

Feasibility Study

  • Analysing site constraints, zoning regulations, and potential challenges.
  • Estimating preliminary costs.

2

Schematic Design Phase

Design Refinement

  • Developing detailed drawings and 3D models based on client’s initial feedback.
  • Selecting materials, finishes, and key design elements.

Preliminary Cost Estimation

  • Providing an initial cost estimate based on design choices.
  • Aligning design with budget and brief constraints.

3

Design Development Phase

Detailed Design

  • Coordinating with engineers and other consultants.

Cost Analysis

  • Updating cost estimates based on finalised design.
  • Identifying potential cost-saving alternatives.

2
SPICER ARCHITECTURE

Approvals and Detailing









1

 Planning Approvals

Preparation of Documents

Submission to Authorities

Monitoring and Coordination

2

Building Approvals

Compliance with Building Codes

Submission of Building Permit Application

Coordination with Inspectors

3

Detailing Phase

Construction Detailing

Coordination with Consultants

Material Selection and Specification

3
SPICER ARCHITECTURE

Construction and Handover









1

Construction Administration

Site Visits and Inspections

Issue Resolution

Progress Reporting

2

Quality Control

Material and Workmanship Inspection

Compliance Verification

3

Cost Management

Budget Monitoring

Change Order Management

Top Rated Architects in Sydney

PRINCIPAL ARCHITECT & DIRECTOR

Jonathan Spicer

SENIOR ASSOCIATE

Sara Neuberg

ARCHITECT (COLOMBIA REGISTERED)

Maria Bernal

ARCHITECT’S ASSISTANT

Daniel Ye

Why Work With Us

At Spicer Architecture, we invite you to join us on an inspiring journey where creativity meets functionality, and imagination transforms into exceptional design. As a leading architecture firm, we pride ourselves on our unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of innovation in the built environment. Our collaborative team of visionary architects and designers share a passion for crafting spaces that resonate with the essence of both aesthetics and purpose. By choosing to work with us, you are choosing to be part of a dynamic and diverse community that thrives on turning ambitious ideas into reality. We foster an environment where your ideas are not just heard, but valued, and where your skills are honed through engaging projects that span a spectrum of architectural styles and scales. Embark on a career with Spicer Architecture, and together, let’s shape a world that seamlessly blends artistry, functionality, and sustainability into every structure we create.


What Our Clients Say

Excellent! Spicer Architecture incorporated great modern design features into the renovation of our house and was very understanding of our requests. Very friendly, efficient and worked well with the builder. The results of his work has given us a fantastic house. Highly recommended!

PADDINGTON
We would highly recommend Spicer Architecture. Great design; really responsive; terrific attention to detail. Jonathan is solutions oriented and brings the unusual combination of great creativity as well as realistic expectations to the task.

BELLEVUE HILL
Spicer Architecture helped us renovate a dilapidated terrace on a tight budget. We had no experience renovating and Jonathan patiently stepped us through the process and efficiently homed in on what was most important to us in terms of the design and use of the space.

BONDI
During the build Spicer Architecture and their director Jonathan was there every step of the way, helping with decisions, advice, purchasing items for the house and tips on where to save money. We have been in the completed house for several years now and still love it as much as day 1. I would recommend (and often do) Jonathan to anyone thinking about taking the step to build their dream home or renovate their current. His calm approach, accessibility and willingness to guide you through makes the process so much more enjoyable.

AUCKLAND, NZ
Spicer Architecture was very meticulous from start to finish with my renovation project from understanding my requirements to council approval through to project completion. They kept me informed, ensured the project didn’t exceed budget was very reliable, professional and pleasant to deal with. I would definitely recommend them to people in my network and would most definitely use you again.

POTTS POINT
I only have great things to say about Spicer Architecture. From the beginning of the project, Jonathan was nothing but professional. Nothing was ever a problem even when it took a while for us, the client, to make decisions! His vision for the project was exactly how we had imagined and not only does the space look and feel amazing, it is also highly functional. He also delivered well within the budget and timeframe.

NORTH SYDNEY

Contact Us

From initial sketches to the final brick, we prioritize your unique ideas and requirements. Have a question, want to discuss your project, or ready to take the plunge? Feel free to reach out using the convenient form right beside this message. Let’s transform your imagination into awe-inspiring spaces together.

(+61) 404 139 557

[email protected]

Sydney, Australia


Find Us On Maps



What does an architect do?

An architect creates designs for buildings used for residential, commercial and other purposes, and makes sure that the completed structure is aesthetically pleasing and functional. 

Architects also help in the selection of materials and finishes, in getting quotes and comparing bids from builders, and in overseeing the construction process.



Do I need an architect to draw plans?

You can draw your own plans if you have a good design sense, are clear on what you want to achieve, and are able to meet local government requirements for architect’s drawings.



How do I estimate architect fees?

Architect fees in Australia generally cost about 8 to 15 per cent of the total cost of construction. Plans alone cost about 5 to 8 per cent of the total cost. Fees cover design costs, certificate and documentation costs, and contract administration.

The average home in Australia cost about $313,800 in 2022, making the average architect’s fees come to about $26,000 to 36,000.

If the cost is unknown, architects may charge a flat fee according to the size of the project , or a base fee along with hourly fees and incidental expenses. Hourly fees may apply to work that is done outside the scope of the project.



Who are the leading architects in Sydney?

The best architects in Sydney are focusing on multifunctional residences that blend indoor and outdoor lifestyles, with many of them integrating rock gardens into their designs. Leading architects in Sydney are also emphasising sustainability in their choice of natural materials for building, flooring and furniture. 

As a leading Sydney-based architectural firm, Spicer Architecture not only embraces these trends but builds on them to create designs that are innovative and forward-looking, yet simple, clean and classic. All Houzz reviews for Spicer Architecture are five stars.



What is the rate of architects in Australia?

Architects’ rates vary according to their years of experience and their particular area of expertise. Some architects specialise in sustainable design, for instance, or working on heritage properties.

On average, however, an architect in Australia charges about $60 per hour, with more experienced architects’ fees in the neighbourhood of $100 to $250 per hour. 

Flat or fixed rates will also vary according to location, with architects in Victoria charging the highest at around $4,400 per renovation project, and architects in Queensland charging the lowest at about $2,000. Architects in New South Wales charge on the lower end of the middle range at about $3,200.



Are architects in demand in Sydney?

Architects are very much in demand in Australia as a whole and in Sydney, in particular, where especially high rates are being paid according to an architect’s years of experience. This demand is also expected to increase in the near future, along with the need for well-designed buildings and residences.



Do architects charge for advice?

Architects may or may not charge for advice according to their individual working style. Architects who do charge for advice regard it as a professional service with the time they spend in mind. This advice may be charged a flat fee or an hourly rate.

There are architects, however, who may offer free advice during an initial consultation to enable them to get to know a client better. Note that architects who provide free advice are under no obligation to provide actionable insights or specific guidance for a particular project.



Do I need an architect or just a builder?

There is no legal requirement in Australia for engaging the services of an architect to design your home. You can draw the plans yourself and have them approved and executed by a builder, as long as the plans are properly documented. 

Do note, however, that architects take regulations and architectural codes into consideration when designing a home or a commercial space. These regulations and codes ensure the safety of the structure and that it is built according to specifications.

It is recommended to bring both an architect and a builder in on a project from the beginning for a more efficient process.



Do I need a planner or an architect?

A building planner is usually involved in large-scale construction projects to manage the on-site teams and transporting materials to the site. Planners are also responsible for keep tracking of the budget and making sure the project is completed on time. 

Overseeing the construction process is part of an architect’s responsibilities, and unless the project is particularly large such as a multi-residential apartment complex or public infrastructure, a building planner may not be needed.

Blog Articles



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Bellevue

Renovations for this Bellevue Hill residence transformed the facade to create a more contemporary look without compromising the existing spaces.

LOCATION:

Sydney, AU

AREA:

400 m2

YEAR:

2018

STATUS:

Completed


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Highbrook

Design and construction for this New Zealand residence takes full advantage of the surrounding countryside views and encapsulates the Spicer Architecture design philosophy.

LOCATION:

Whata Whata, NZ

AREA:

200 m2

YEAR:

2020

STATUS:

Concept


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Stewart

Being located in Manly, the Whale’s Tail design was influenced by its location. The tail follows the slope of the existing roof, creating a division between the modern and the traditional.

LOCATION:

Randwick, Syd

AREA:

150 m2

YEAR:

2022

STATUS:

Completed


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Tili Winery

This organic winery and production facility for virgin olive oil in the heart of Italy includes a dining area, event venue and underground parking.

LOCATION:

Tili, Italy

AREA:

500 m2

YEAR:

2023

STATUS:

Competition


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Cliffedge

Tropical architecture inspired this three-storey residence in Sydney’s Inner West so as to adapt to the topographic and climate conditions of the site.

LOCATION:

Sydney, AU

AREA:

400 m2

YEAR:

2022-23

STATUS:

Awaiting Approval


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Palmerston

This historic property in Vaucluse with a new extension overlooking Watsons Bay transitions seamlessly between the original stonemason’s house and the modern open plan living space.

LOCATION:

Vaucluse, Syd

AREA:

350 m2

YEAR:

2023

STATUS:

Under Construction