Architectural
Design Services
From initial concept through to construction documentation—comprehensive architectural services for residential projects and property developments across Melbourne suburbs.
SQM Architects has delivered over 210 development projects across Melbourne with a 98% planning approval rate. Our team of ARBV-registered architects brings 15+ years of experience navigating Victorian planning requirements, helping developers across Melbourne's suburbs realise value from their sites.
Full Architectural Service
Whether you're building a custom home or developing multiple dwellings, our architectural design services cover every stage of your project.
Residential Projects
Architectural design for homeowners seeking quality outcomes—from new custom homes to renovations and extensions.
- Custom home design
- House extensions & additions
- Renovations & alterations
- Heritage-sensitive design
- Indoor-outdoor living spaces
Development Projects
Architectural design for developers focused on profit—optimised layouts, efficient approvals, and construction-ready documentation.
- Dual occupancy developments
- Townhouse projects (3-12 units)
- Small apartment buildings
- Mixed-use developments
- Subdivision & permit-to-sell
Good architectural design isn't just about aesthetics—it's about understanding how people live and work, how buildings perform, and how to navigate the approval process efficiently. Every project is different, but the approach should always be the same: listen carefully, design thoughtfully, and deliver professionally.
Our Architectural Services
Comprehensive services from initial concept through to construction support.
Feasibility & Site Analysis
Understand your site's potential before committing. Zoning analysis under the Victorian Planning Provisions, overlay assessment, and development capacity studies.
Concept Design
Explore design options that respond to your brief, site conditions, and planning requirements. Multiple schemes to compare.
Design Development
Refine the chosen concept in detail. Resolve layouts, materials, structural approaches, and key design elements.
Planning Permits
Prepare and lodge planning applications under the Planning and Environment Act 1987. Manage council assessment, VCAT if required, and neighbour concerns.
3D Visualisations
Photorealistic renders and virtual walkthroughs. Essential for marketing, client presentations, and planning submissions.
Construction Documentation
Detailed working drawings and specifications ready for builder tender and construction. Building permit coordination.
Comprehensive Deliverables
Every project includes detailed documentation to support approval and construction.
The Design Process
Initial Consultation
Understand your goals, review your site, and discuss budget. We'll outline what's achievable and provide a clear fee proposal.
Site Analysis
Detailed site assessment including zoning, overlays, setbacks, and opportunities. For developments, we model yield scenarios.
Concept Design
Explore 2-3 design options with sketch plans, massing studies, and preliminary renders. Refine until you're confident in the direction.
Design Development
Develop the chosen scheme in detail. Resolve floor plans, elevations, materials, and coordinate with structural and services engineers.
Planning Approval
Prepare permit application, coordinate consultants, manage council assessment. 98% of our applications are approved without VCAT.
Construction Documentation
Comprehensive working drawings and specifications for builder tender and construction. Building permit coordination included.
The SQM Difference
Fixed-Fee Pricing
Know your costs upfront with transparent fixed fees for each project stage. No hourly surprises or scope creep—just clear pricing you can rely on.
Melbourne Suburban Experts
15+ years navigating Whitehorse, Boroondara, Manningham, Monash, and surrounding councils. We know local planning requirements inside out.
Approval Focus
98% planning approval rate across 210+ projects. We design with approval in mind from day one, reducing risk and avoiding costly delays.
Developer Fluent
We speak developer—ROI, margins, GDV, yield. Every design decision considers both aesthetic quality and commercial outcomes.
Official Architectural Design Planning Guides
Victorian Planning Provisions
Access the complete VPP including Clause 54 (one dwelling), Clause 55 (two+ dwellings), and ResCode standards.
View VPPDTP Planning Guides
Official Department of Transport and Planning guides for residential development, subdivisions, and permit applications.
View GuidesResCode Standards
Residential development standards for setbacks, overlooking, overshadowing, private open space, and car parking.
View ResCodeBuilding Regulations
Victorian Building Authority regulations, National Construction Code compliance, and building permit requirements.
View RegulationsArchitectural Design FAQs
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Whether you're planning a custom home or a multi-dwelling development, we'll guide you through every stage with clear communication and proven expertise.
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