Understanding Overshadowing Requirements for Development Applications in Perth, Western Australia
Joe Matthiessen Joe Matthiessen

Understanding Overshadowing Requirements for Development Applications in Perth, Western Australia

When planning a new development in Perth, Western Australia, it's essential to consider the impact of overshadowing on neighboring properties, especially at noon on June 21st, the winter solstice. Councils require this assessment as part of the Planning and Development Applications process. By calculating the sun's angle, developers can accurately predict the extent of shadows cast by their buildings, ensuring compliance with regulations and maintaining a harmonious urban environment. For developments in other locations, use specific geographical and temporal data to determine the sun angle using tools like ChatGPT.

Image credit: Amit Geron

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Introducing Our New Concept Design Package: Transform Your Home with Ease
Joe Matthiessen Joe Matthiessen

Introducing Our New Concept Design Package: Transform Your Home with Ease

We are excited to announce our newest offering: the Concept Design Package for kitchens, bathrooms, and ensuites. Leveraging over 17 years of experience in residential architecture, we deliver detailed, professional design concepts that simplify your renovation journey. Our package includes everything from expert design drawings and fixture recommendations to thorough site visits, ensuring a seamless transition from vision to reality. You can also enhance your project with optional services such as 3D modelling and detailed plan development. In this article, we will delve into the details of this service.

Image: Matthiessen Architects

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Harnessing Perth’s Breezes: Architectural Strategies for Optimal Airflow
Joe Matthiessen Joe Matthiessen

Harnessing Perth’s Breezes: Architectural Strategies for Optimal Airflow

In the sun-drenched city of Perth, Western Australia, optimising airflow and cross ventilation in homes is crucial for creating comfortable and energy-efficient living environments. Leveraging the expertise of an architect can transform a house into a haven of natural breezes, reducing reliance on artificial cooling and promoting sustainable living. From strategic window placement to innovative ventilation openings, architects employ a variety of techniques to enhance natural airflow. Discover how professional design can make your home cooler, more comfortable, and environmentally friendly, all while maintaining a harmonious aesthetic.

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Transforming Tradition: A Fresh Chapter for an 80s House in South Perth
Joe Matthiessen Joe Matthiessen

Transforming Tradition: A Fresh Chapter for an 80s House in South Perth

We are excited to share an update on our latest renovation project, currently under development application review by the City of South Perth. This project breathes new life into a classic 1980s two-storey house, blending its original charm with modern design elements. Our vision incorporates a diverse mix of materials, including timber screens, stucco, and cement render, to create a harmonious balance between tradition and contemporary style.

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The Current Building Market in Perth: Exploring the Owner Builder Trend
Joe Matthiessen Joe Matthiessen

The Current Building Market in Perth: Exploring the Owner Builder Trend

In Perth's dynamic building market, the owner builder trend is gaining momentum. This approach allows individuals to manage their construction projects, offering significant cost savings and greater control over customisation. However, the journey comes with its challenges, including time commitment and the need for extensive project management skills. Engaging an architect can make a world of difference. Architects bring creative design solutions, navigate complex planning regulations, and provide detailed documentation, ensuring a successful and satisfying building experience. Whether you're renovating or building anew, the collaboration between owner builders and architects can result in beautifully designed, well-constructed homes tailored to your unique needs.

Image credit: Unsplash - Thayran Melo @thayran

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The Benefits of Terrace Housing in Perth, Australia
Joe Matthiessen Joe Matthiessen

The Benefits of Terrace Housing in Perth, Australia

As Perth's urban landscape evolves, terrace housing is emerging as a popular solution to the city's growth challenges. This architectural style offers numerous benefits, including efficient land use, affordability, and fostering community interaction. Terrace houses are designed to be sustainable, with features like solar panels and energy-efficient appliances, making them ideal for Perth's climate. Their strategic locations ensure easy access to amenities, reducing reliance on cars and enhancing quality of life. Embracing terrace housing can help Perth create a more sustainable, connected, and vibrant urban future. Discover how Matthiessen architects can help you design the perfect terrace home.

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Architect: DKO

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Using Self-Managed Super Funds (SMSFs) to Develop Property in Australia
Joe Matthiessen Joe Matthiessen

Using Self-Managed Super Funds (SMSFs) to Develop Property in Australia

Self-Managed Super Funds (SMSFs) offer Australians the unique opportunity to take control of their retirement savings, and one innovative investment strategy is property development. This approach can potentially yield substantial returns through capital growth and rental income. However, it requires careful planning and compliance with complex regulations.

Engaging an architect in the property development process can be highly beneficial. Architects bring professional expertise in design, ensuring the property is functional, aesthetically pleasing, and compliant with local regulations. Their involvement can enhance the property's market value and streamline the development process, ultimately contributing to a successful investment outcome for the SMSF.

Disclaimer: This excerpt is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial or legal advice. Using self-managed super funds for property development involves complex regulations and financial risks. It is essential to consult with a registered financial advisor and obtain independent legal and financial advice tailored to your specific circumstances.

Image credit: Unsplash - Elena Mozhvilo @miracleday

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Renovating for Value: Ronnie and Georgia's Success Story in Embleton, Perth
Joe Matthiessen Joe Matthiessen

Renovating for Value: Ronnie and Georgia's Success Story in Embleton, Perth

Ronnie and Georgia's renovation journey in Embleton, Perth, is a testament to the power of strategic renovation in today's real estate market. Their once modest 4-bedroom, 1-bathroom house underwent a remarkable transformation into a modern 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home in just nine months – a feat that not only exceeded expectations but also showcased the efficiency of renovation over new construction.

Central to their success was the ability to add substantial value to the property. By reimagining the layout and upgrading key features, they not only improved livability but also significantly increased market worth. Furthermore, their savvy approach to subdivision unlocked additional value, demonstrating the versatility of renovation projects.

Ronnie and Georgia's story resonates with young couples and families seeking to maximise their budget without compromising on quality or location. Their experience underscores the potential of renovation as a pathway to homeownership and value creation in the ever-evolving real estate landscape.

Image Credit: Ronnie and Georgia

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Reviving 90s Charm: Modernising Homes in Perth's Northern Suburbs
Joe Matthiessen Joe Matthiessen

Reviving 90s Charm: Modernising Homes in Perth's Northern Suburbs

In the heart of Perth's northern suburbs, a timeless transformation is underway. With a vision to revive the charm of a 90s-era home, our team embarked on a journey of reinvention. Guided by the client's desire for modernisation while preserving nostalgic elements, our design approach seamlessly integrates contemporary flair with classic appeal. From the sleek sophistication of charcoal paneling to the grandeur of deep piers adorning the new porch, every detail has been meticulously crafted to breathe new life into this beloved residence. As construction progresses, anticipation builds for the unveiling of a modern masterpiece that pays homage to its past while embracing the future of architecture in Perth.

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Embracing the Benefits: Granny Flats and Western Australia's New Planning Rules
Joe Matthiessen Joe Matthiessen

Embracing the Benefits: Granny Flats and Western Australia's New Planning Rules

Western Australia's recent decision to waive planning approval for granny flats heralds a promising era for homeowners and developers alike. These self-contained living spaces offer a multitude of benefits, from providing additional income streams to fostering multigenerational living arrangements and promoting sustainable urban development. As architects, we have a unique opportunity to shape the future of housing by embracing the potential of granny flats and designing innovative, functional spaces that enhance the quality of life for residents and contribute to the vibrancy of our communities.

Image credit: Leonid Furmansky

Architecture: Hunt Architecture

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Navigating Home Renovation: Strategies for Renovating While Living In Your Perth Home
Joe Matthiessen Joe Matthiessen

Navigating Home Renovation: Strategies for Renovating While Living In Your Perth Home

Renovating your Perth home while still residing in it presents unique challenges, but with proper planning and communication, it can be a rewarding experience. Establishing clear communication channels with your architect and contractors, creating designated living areas, and prioritising safety are essential strategies for a smooth renovation journey. By setting realistic expectations, minimising disruptions, and practicing self-care, you can successfully navigate the renovation process while maintaining comfort and tranquility in your home.

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Designing a Tranquil Haven: Minimising Noise Transfer in Your Two-Storey Home
Joe Matthiessen Joe Matthiessen

Designing a Tranquil Haven: Minimising Noise Transfer in Your Two-Storey Home

Discover the art of tranquility in your two-storey abode by implementing strategic design and construction considerations inspired by a stay at a serenity-seeking 'upside-down holiday house' in Binningup, Western Australia. Picture a haven where the patter of early-rising feet on the upper floor doesn't disturb the peaceful slumber of those below. From sound-dampening battens to double drywall construction and solid core doors, explore a symphony of solutions to orchestrate a living space where each floor resonates with calmness, leaving the hustle and bustle of daily life behind. It's time to design a sanctuary where the harmony of your home is undisturbed by the echoes of the world outside.

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Building Tomorrow: Smart Home Technologies in Australian Residential Architecture
Joe Matthiessen Joe Matthiessen

Building Tomorrow: Smart Home Technologies in Australian Residential Architecture

Discover a new era in Australian residential architecture as smart home technologies redefine modern living. Architects are seamlessly integrating automation, energy management, and connectivity features, creating homes that respond intuitively to occupants' needs. From voice-activated controls to energy-efficient systems and robust connectivity, these innovations are shaping the future of intelligent and sustainable living in the land Down Under. Welcome to a world where homes are not just spaces but dynamic, responsive environments designed for the needs of today and tomorrow.

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Renovating vs. Building New: Unveiling the Advantages of Purchasing an Established House in Perth's Real Estate Market
Joe Matthiessen Joe Matthiessen

Renovating vs. Building New: Unveiling the Advantages of Purchasing an Established House in Perth's Real Estate Market

In Perth's dynamic real estate market, the choice between renovating an established house and building new is a pivotal decision for homeowners. Opting for an established property not only unveils the city's architectural charm but also offers cost-effective renovations, quicker move-in times, and a sustainable living approach. From character-rich neighborhoods to a faster path to personalized living, renovating established homes proves to be a compelling choice amidst the evolving landscape of Perth's real estate.

In this article, we will discuss the key benefits of buying an established house to renovate.

Image credit: Pablo Veiga

Architecture: Carter Williamson Architects

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Heritage Renovations in Perth, Western Australia: Balancing Tradition and Modernity
Joe Matthiessen Joe Matthiessen

Heritage Renovations in Perth, Western Australia: Balancing Tradition and Modernity

In the heart of Perth, Western Australia, where history echoes through many character streets and ornate facades, heritage homes stand as silent witnesses to a bygone era. As an architect immersed in the challenge of renovating these time-honored structures, the delicate dance between tradition and modernity unfolds. Navigating the labyrinth of stringent heritage regulations, preserving the authenticity of architectural gems, and embracing sustainable solutions are the formidable hurdles faced. Yet, amidst these challenges lie strategic pathways for success.

Collaboration with heritage experts emerges as a cornerstone strategy, guiding architects through the nuanced world of regulations and offering historical insights crucial to the renovation process. Selective restoration becomes an art form, focusing on preserving key features while gracefully introducing contemporary elements where appropriate. The architect's toolbox expands to include innovative design solutions, where modernity meets tradition through hidden technologies and harmonious extensions.

This journey of heritage renovation in Perth is not only an architectural endeavor but a collaborative dance with homeowners. Educating them on the intrinsic value of preserving historical charm fosters a shared commitment to a thoughtful renovation. In this nexus of past and present, architects in Perth play a vital role, shaping the future while honoring the timeless allure of the city's architectural legacy.

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Unlocking the Blueprint: A Comprehensive Guide to Measuring Up an Existing House
Joe Matthiessen Joe Matthiessen

Unlocking the Blueprint: A Comprehensive Guide to Measuring Up an Existing House

Embarking on the journey of redesigning or renovating your home is an exciting endeavor, but its success hinges on a fundamental step—accurate measurements. To guide you through this crucial stage, we've compiled essential tips from an experienced architect. These insights not only ensure precision but also lay the groundwork for a seamless transition from vision to reality.

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Harmony in Design: Crafting Timeless Residential Interiors in Australian Design
Joe Matthiessen Joe Matthiessen

Harmony in Design: Crafting Timeless Residential Interiors in Australian Design

Nestled on the western coast of Australia, Perth is a city of vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and a unique blend of modernity and tradition. As an architect based in Perth, I am constantly inspired by the city’s natural beauty and diverse community. In this article, we will explore the art and science of designing residential interiors in Perth, focusing on the principles that contribute to creating timeless and harmonious living spaces.

The West Australian landscape offers architects a rich palette of natural elements to incorporate into residential interiors. Perth’s unique geography and climate provide an opportunity to seamlessly integrate the outdoors with indoor spaces. The abundance of sunlight, the proximity to the Indian Ocean, and the native flora and fauna are some of the natural elements that can be used to create timeless and harmonious living spaces. Large windows, sliding glass doors, and strategically placed skylights not only maximize natural light but also invite the breathtaking views of the Western Australian landscape into the home. In this article, we will discuss the above in more detail.

Image: Matthiessen Architects

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Enhancing Street Appeal: New Builds and Renovations in the Australian Architectural Landscape
Joe Matthiessen Joe Matthiessen

Enhancing Street Appeal: New Builds and Renovations in the Australian Architectural Landscape

In the dynamic architectural landscape of Perth, Western Australia, the concept of street appeal is taking center stage, influencing both new builds and the transformative potential of renovations. As an architect navigating this vibrant terrain, I find inspiration in the duality of opportunities presented by creating from scratch and revitalizing existing structures. In this article, we will discuss these key items to create street appeal for your next project.

Image: Matthiessen Architects

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