What We Do
Complex coastal sites require specialized knowledge.
From Newcastle to Newport, we've spent decades solving the challenges that define complex coastal construction—steep escarpment, bushfire zones, geotechnical complexity, and planning constraints that demand creative problem-solving.
We see projects from multiple perspectives: what's possible on your site, what's practical to build, and what will perform reliably in coastal conditions over time.
We work collaboratively with builders and consultants throughout construction to keep your project moving forward.
Our Approach
We provide end-to-end architectural service, from concept through construction. This means:
Early Builder Collaboration
We work with MBA award-winning builders who specialize in complex coastal construction. Our collaboration with Arte Constructions—recognized as Best Residential Builder at the 2024 MBA Newcastle
Excellence in Building Awards—demonstrates how early builder involvement delivers exceptional outcomes. Cost-plus relationships ensure transparency, and early builder input means designs are buildable and budget-aligned from the start.
On-Site Presence
We're actively involved during construction, ensuring builders and trades understand the intent and quality required. Details matter—especially in coastal environments where material junctions and weatherproofing strategies determine long-term performance.
Energy Performance
As certified NatHERS assessors, we conduct in-house energy assessments to ensure comfort and efficiency without compromising aesthetics or function.
Material Intelligence
Decades working with coastal conditions taught us which materials perform and which fail. We specify for durability, not just appearance—robust finishes that handle weather, salt air, and thermal movement.
Recognition
Our work has received several architectural awards from the Newcastle and NSW Architecture Awards between 2018 and 2025. Projects have been featured on Australia By Design and published internationally.
We're registered architects in NSW and Queensland, registered under the Design & Building Practitioners Act, with comprehensive professional indemnity insurance. We're A+ members of the Australian Institute of Architects and members of the Home Energy Raters Association.
Background
I graduated with Honours from Newcastle University in 2005 and was nominated for the Design Medal. After working with high-end architectural firms, I established Matt Thitchener Architect in 2010.
My path to architecture began with an apprenticeship as a structural draftsman at my father's engineering firm, Thitchener Consulting.. That foundation in understanding structural systems, loads, and forces continues to inform every design decision I make today.
On complex coastal projects, we still collaborate closely—his structural engineering expertise ensuring ambitious designs are technically sound and buildable. This multi-generational partnership means structural solutions are integrated seamlessly with architectural intent from the earliest design stages.
Today, we specialise in luxury residential projects on complex coastal sites, working with Arte Constructions and other award-winning builders who understand that successful outcomes require true collaboration between architect, engineer, and builder.
Let's Talk
If your site is complex—perched on escarpment, bushfire-affected, geotechnically challenging—we should talk.
If you value collaboration between architect and builder rather than conflict, we should talk.
And if you've started with someone else but something isn't working, we should definitely talk.
Client Feedback
"His technical knowledge is first class and his meticulous attention to detail meant the builder was provided with a comprehensive set of drawings which made for a smooth build on a very difficult and constrained site."
— Tony Palmer
"Our site was a challenging site to build on with a number of restrictions. Matt came up with a design we love. Warm in winter, cool in summer, lots of natural light and energy efficient—the design delivers in all those areas as well as being low maintenance with an inviting, relaxing ambience."
— Nadine Smith
"From a personal perspective, I just want to thank you for working so well together and actively collaborating without my involvement. It was clear that you genuinely cared about delivering the best outcome."
— Client, Killcare Heights