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Local Planning Expertise

Hawthorn Architects

Expert architects for Hawthorn's prestigious heritage and character areas. Delivering development outcomes while respecting neighbourhood character.

98% Approval Rate
210+ Projects Delivered
67% Repeat Client Rate
15+ Years Experience
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Sammi Lian, Principal Architect
Sammi Lian Principal Architect · ARBV Registered
Key Facts

SQM Architects has delivered over 210 residential development projects across Melbourne's suburbs with a 98% planning approval rate. Our team has 15+ years of experience navigating Boroondara Council's heritage overlays and prestigious neighbourhood character requirements, with a 67% repeat client rate.

Local Knowledge

Why Hawthorn Expertise Matters

Hawthorn has specific planning requirements within Boroondara Council. Success requires architects who understand local zoning, overlays, and council expectations.

With numerous projects approved across Hawthorn, we've built relationships with council planners and understand exactly what they're looking for in applications.

Hawthorn-Specific Expertise:

  • Heritage Overlay expertise
  • Neighbourhood Character navigation
  • Activity centre apartment opportunities
  • Boutique townhouse developments
  • Heritage-sensitive dual occupancies
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Hawthorn's heritage overlays require architects who understand both the planning framework and heritage guidelines. We work closely with council heritage advisers to achieve development outcomes that respect the area's valued character.
Sammi Lian, Principal Architect
Sammi Lian Principal Architect, ARBV Registered — on developing in Hawthorn
Our Services

Development Services for Hawthorn

Dual Occupancy

Expert dual occupancy designs optimised for Hawthorn's zoning and character requirements.

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Townhouses

Multi-unit townhouse developments designed to maximise your Hawthorn site.

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Apartments

Apartment developments where Boroondara Council zoning permits higher density.

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Free Instant Analysis

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Boroondara Council

Part of Our Boroondara Expertise

Hawthorn is within Boroondara Council, where we've delivered extensive projects across the municipality. Our deep council relationships and local knowledge benefit every Hawthorn project.

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Common Questions

Hawthorn Planning FAQs

Heritage overlays require careful design respecting original buildings and streetscape. Development is possible with expertise in heritage guidelines. We work closely with council heritage advisers for successful outcomes.
The Hawthorn Activity Centre allows higher density development including apartments. Specific height controls and heritage considerations apply. Our site assessment confirms what's achievable.
Yes, dual occupancy is possible in NRZ zones but typically requires 800m²+ lots and careful attention to character. Many Hawthorn properties have development potential we can help you realise.
Planning Resources

Official Boroondara Planning Information

Boroondara Council Planning Portal

Official planning and building information, permit requirements, and lodgement details.

Visit Council Website

Boroondara Planning Scheme

Full planning scheme ordinance including zones, overlays, and local policies.

View Planning Scheme

Victorian Planning Guides

State government planning guides including ResCode, heritage guidelines, and application requirements.

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Planning Scheme Amendments

Latest Victorian planning scheme amendments and reform updates affecting residential development.

View Amendments

Planning a Hawthorn Development?

Get a free site assessment and find out exactly what's achievable on your Hawthorn property.

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