Selected projects
A more personal waySelected work.
Duplex
Projects in this category are being photographed. Ask us about recent work.
Lawson Black
This Matraville duplex, in Sydney's south-east, was shaped closely around its owners' needs and shows what thoughtful architecture can bring to a standard suburban block.
Its discreet street facades are wrapped in fine dark vertical battens, giving the occupants privacy and protection from the sun while still letting light filter through. The standout feature is a strategic central void. It acts as a conduit for daylight, carrying warmth and brightness into every corner of both residences and making them feel open and generous, well beyond their footprint.
At ground level, timber cladding and glazing bring a warmer, softer edge beneath the dark upper form, and at dusk the battens glow from within. The result is a pair of private, light-filled homes with a strong, quiet presence on the street.
Architect-designed and completed by Arkhaus.
Giving both homes privacy and sun protection on a busy suburban street, without losing natural light in the middle of the plan.
What are you
imagining?
What needs
to fall into place?
What needs
untangling?
What's
your style?
Your brief, so far.
What haven't we asked?
Tell us a little more about the project, or anything you're still working through.
Every enquiry is read and answered personally, not by an enquiry department.
01 — DESIGN PHILOSOPHYDesign & construction.
On speaking terms.
Some ideas are better left on paper. We prefer the ones that become even better when built.
Arkhaus is a residential and commercial design studio, and for much of its history a registered architectural practice, where creative thinking and practical construction knowledge are part of the same conversation.
02 — EXPERIENCEExperience changes
the way you see.
Led by Fernando Banales, Arkhaus draws on 24 years in design and construction. Trained in architecture. Registered builder. Designer by instinct.
We use NOX, a project management platform that keeps clients informed, decisions connected and next steps clear. Because a well-considered design deserves an equally considered process.
03 — SITE & CONTEXTThe site has a say.
Every site has its own character. And a few opinions. Light, aspect, landscape, privacy, neighbours and the occasional inconvenient constraint.
Then there's how you want to live. We look for the natural opportunities within each place, creating spaces that feel connected to their surroundings, comfortable to inhabit and entirely their own.
04 — DESIGN & DETAILBeautiful on paper.
Better in person.
Minimalism isn't about having less. It's about knowing what deserves to stay. Good proportions, honest materials, natural light and carefully considered details. Nothing unnecessary. Nothing missing.
We believe practicality and beauty belong together. Spaces should feel effortless, work intuitively and offer genuine comfort in everyday life. The best design makes all that thinking look rather simple.