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.
Whether you're building a custom home or developing multiple dwellings, our architectural design services cover every stage of your project.
Architectural design for homeowners seeking quality outcomes—from new custom homes to renovations and extensions.
Architectural design for developers focused on profit—optimised layouts, efficient approvals, and construction-ready documentation.
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.
Comprehensive services from initial concept through to construction support.
Understand your site's potential before committing. Zoning analysis under the Victorian Planning Provisions, overlay assessment, and development capacity studies.
Explore design options that respond to your brief, site conditions, and planning requirements. Multiple schemes to compare.
Refine the chosen concept in detail. Resolve layouts, materials, structural approaches, and key design elements.
Prepare and lodge planning applications under the Planning and Environment Act 1987. Manage council assessment, VCAT if required, and neighbour concerns.
Photorealistic renders and virtual walkthroughs. Essential for marketing, client presentations, and planning submissions.
Detailed working drawings and specifications ready for builder tender and construction. Building permit coordination.
Every project includes detailed documentation to support approval and construction.
Understand your goals, review your site, and discuss budget. We'll outline what's achievable and provide a clear fee proposal.
Detailed site assessment including zoning, overlays, setbacks, and opportunities. For developments, we model yield scenarios.
Explore 2-3 design options with sketch plans, massing studies, and preliminary renders. Refine until you're confident in the direction.
Develop the chosen scheme in detail. Resolve floor plans, elevations, materials, and coordinate with structural and services engineers.
Prepare permit application, coordinate consultants, manage council assessment. 98% of our applications are approved without VCAT.
Comprehensive working drawings and specifications for builder tender and construction. Building permit coordination included.
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.
15+ years navigating Whitehorse, Boroondara, Manningham, Monash, and surrounding councils. We know local planning requirements inside out.
98% planning approval rate across 210+ projects. We design with approval in mind from day one, reducing risk and avoiding costly delays.
We speak developer—ROI, margins, GDV, yield. Every design decision considers both aesthetic quality and commercial outcomes.
Access the complete VPP including Clause 54 (one dwelling), Clause 55 (two+ dwellings), and ResCode standards.
View VPPOfficial Department of Transport and Planning guides for residential development, subdivisions, and permit applications.
View GuidesResidential development standards for setbacks, overlooking, overshadowing, private open space, and car parking.
View ResCodeVictorian Building Authority regulations, National Construction Code compliance, and building permit requirements.
View RegulationsGet instant insights into your property's subdivision potential. Powered by official Victorian planning data—no phone call required.
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.
Book Free Strategy CallGet a free subdivision screening in 60 seconds.