5 Best Architects in New South Wales to Design Your Dream Space
I grew up around renovation contractors, so I know clever plans can save plenty of costly headaches. The right architect keeps the vision exciting without letting the budget wander off-site.
Finding the best architect in New South Wales can still feel like sorting through a mountain of blueprints. You’ll want someone who understands local council rules, your priorities, and how you actually live.
So I’ve rounded up some standout firms tackling everything from sustainable homes to major commercial projects. Grab a coffee, and let’s see who could bring your big idea to life.
How much does it cost to hire an architect in New South Wales?
Architect fees depend on the project’s size, scope, and complexity. Hourly consultations typically cost $120 to $250, with an average of around $180 per hour.
Full architectural services usually cost 8% to 15% of the total construction budget. Complex or heritage projects may attract fees of 16.5% or more.
Plans and drafting alone generally cost about 6% of the construction budget. Ask what’s included, as approvals, consultants, site visits, and revisions may cost extra.
1. Pace Architects
Address: Level 1, Suite 5&6, 100 Alexander Street, Crows Nest
Contact: (02) 9425 1400
Hours: Monday-Friday, 9 AM – 5 PM
If your project involves warehouses, logistics facilities, or a sizeable commercial development, Pace Architects knows how to think big without losing sight of the practical bits.
Its 20-plus years of commercial and industrial experience should prove reassuring when the brief comes with serious operational demands.
The team handles master planning, concept development, construction documentation, interior design, project management, and BIM.
I particularly like that its portfolio stretches beyond standard warehouses to healthcare, hospitality, cold-storage, residential, and commercial fit-out projects.
Pace reports more than 250 completed projects across Australia and five national professional awards, giving its credentials some welcome weight.
However, its strong industrial focus may feel oversized for a modest home project, while weekend closures leave consultations limited to weekdays.
Customer Reviews
Exceptional work
Pat and the Pace team have been exceptional to work with. They have gone above and beyond with their services and have allowed us to be responsive and efficient with our own clients. I would highly recommend the Pace Architect team to any new or existing businesses and will be sure to continue using them for many more projects to come.
Nick Bradley | Google Review
Smooth working experience
Working with Pace has been a very smooth and easy process right from first contact with Patrick and his team. They strive to help their clients by using their experience and providing extensive information to help guide towards the optimal solution.
Very refreshing to see this service in the industry.
Faraz Alam | Google Review
2. CplusC Architects + Builders
Address: 466 Cleveland Street, Surry Hills
Contact: +61 2 9690 2211
Hours: Monday-Friday, 9 AM – 5 PM
CplusC Architects + Builders keeps design and construction under one roof, which can save clients from juggling separate teams.
I like that the same crew can carry an idea from early sketches through to the final build.
Sustainability isn’t just decorative greenery here, either. The firm is a Certified B Corporation and works across regenerative design, heritage alterations, landscape architecture, interiors, feasibility studies, and bushfire compliance.
Its award-winning portfolio is packed with inventive, highly personalised homes that make ordinary renovations look rather shy.
However, CplusC focuses on select premium projects and openly notes that it doesn’t have capacity for every enquiry. Clients with simpler or more budget-led briefs may need to look elsewhere.
Customer Reviews
Efficient, seamless
CplusC’s approach to fully understand and take into consideration our requirements whilst ensuring a sustainable, creative, innovative design and build means we now have a home that not only suits exactly how we want to live but also takes into consideration the heritage character of an 1880s terrace and the need to minimise our carbon footprint. Working with CplusC, as an architect and builder, meant the process from initial engagement right through to handover was efficient and seamless.
Mathew Kempton | Google Review
Thrilled with the final result
We chose CplusC to design our renovations as we loved their aesthetics and use of space, especially their use of wood in their designs.
We found that they were attentive and creative throughout the briefing process.
They were also flexible, allowing us to use our own builder, ‘Acacia Build’ instead of using their contractors. We were thrilled with the final result of an elegant, liveable and spacious home. Thank you, CplusC
Tom Gwinn | Google Review
3. All Image Architects
Address: 22 Kiernan Crescent, Abbotsbury
Contact: 1300 255 462
Hours: Monday-Friday, 9 AM – 5 PM
All Image Architects brings around 30 years of experience to custom homes, duplexes, additions, and larger residential projects across Sydney.
I like that its designs respond to the site and budget instead of treating every block like a blank rectangle.
Its detailed 3D modelling lets clients walk through a design before anyone starts pouring concrete. A single point of contact keeps communication tidier, while the team coordinates consultants and prepares plans for council approval.
The firm has worked with more than 30 councils and can handle everything from modest alterations to luxury homes.
Do note that its Abbotsbury office may be less convenient for clients farther across NSW, and published consultations are limited to weekdays.
Customer Reviews
Recommended
Michael at All Image Architects was quick to respond when I contacted him for advice on my project. He took the time to listen closely and offered valuable ideas. His communication skills and attention to detail were impressive. He responded to changes with thoughtfulness and shared insightful suggestions. Working with Michael and his team was a great experience. We wholeheartedly recommend All Image Architects to anyone seeking outstanding architectural services.
Jenny Yothoun | Google Review
Very pleased
The experience with the All Image team was great!
What sets Michael apart is his knowledge and experience in the architectural world.
The 3D modelling of your plans is a game changer.
He was always available when required; we had multiple revisions, and he was always very accommodating.
We’re very pleased with the outcome and look forward to continuing to work with him in the future.
Nik Nanda | Google Review
4. Luigi Rosselli Architects
Address: 122 Buckingham Street, Surry Hills
Contact: +61 2 9281 1498
Hours: Monday-Friday, 9 AM – 5:30 PM
Luigi Rosselli Architects brings a distinctly human touch to buildings that could otherwise feel like expensive sculptures.
I’m especially drawn to how its designs use curves, natural materials, and thoughtful proportions to sit gently within their surroundings.
The carbon-neutral practice has more than three decades of international experience across Milan, Switzerland, New York, and Sydney.
Its portfolio spans private homes, heritage adaptations, offices, factories, wineries, libraries, childcare centres, and chapels.
Rammed earth, energy-efficient design, and spaces that work without constant air conditioning are particular strengths.
However, the studio is closed on weekends, so clients will need to fit consultations around its weekday schedule.
Customer Review
Couldn’t be happier
We completed a knock-down and rebuild of our family home with LRA.
From the initial design process, our brief was followed and improved on.
Although a challenging build, we got through and are now living in an amazing house that we couldn’t be happier with. It is not only beautiful, but more importantly, a pleasure to live in.
Geoff Will | Google Review
5. Sam Crawford Architects
Address: Unit 4, 30 Wilson Street, Newtown
Contact: +61 2 9519 6800
Hours: Monday-Friday, 9 AM – 6 PM
Sam Crawford Architects has spent more than 25 years designing spaces that feel considered without becoming precious.
I like that its work pairs strong ideas with the practical details people notice once they actually move in.
The portfolio ranges from houses and multi-residential developments to schools, sporting facilities, hospitality venues, and public spaces.
Its heritage work deserves a closer look, especially if you’d rather preserve a building’s character than flatten its story.
Careful listening and collaboration shape each project, while numerous local, state, and national awards add weight to the firm’s reputation.
Do note that the studio is closed on weekends, so consultations need to fit within its weekday schedule.
Customer Reviews
Couldn’t be more impressed
We recently worked with Jordan and Jared at Sam Crawford Architects on our interior design project, and we couldn’t be more impressed with their work.
From day one, both architects were fully invested in elevating our vision. What we thought was already a fantastic design, they took even further.
Michael Lin | Google Review