Business Details
23 Years
experience
Expert Architectural Design Services in Hamilton
Cooper Scaife Architects, established in 2003, is a regional Victorian practice renowned for sophisticated architectural design and meticulous budget management. Led by directors Daniel Cooper and Bianca Scaife, both RMIT graduates with first-class honours, the firm combines international experience from Melbourne, Hong Kong, and the Netherlands with a strategic design approach. Our team delivers tailored solutions for residential, commercial, and community projects, prioritising client collaboration and timeless design.Sustainability is central to our work, incorporating passive thermal design and local materials to reduce environmental impact. Certified carbon-neutral since 2020, we use 100% green power and support Effective Altruism Australia. With expertise in heritage and new builds, we serve western Victoria, fostering strong relationships with First Nations communities and local stakeholders to create architecture that enhances everyday life.
Services
Architectural Design
Building Permits
Sustainable Design
Heritage Projects
Commercial Architecture
Community Buildings
Residential Extensions
Energy Ratings
Contract Administration
Cultural Tourism
Details
- Year established: 2003
Highlights and features
- We implement a strategic design approach informed by 20+ years of combined director experience
- Our team collaborates closely with clients throughout every project phase
- We prioritise sustainable materials and passive thermal design principles
- Certified carbon-neutral practice since 2020
- Established reputation for quality design across 20+ project types since 2003
What people say
Delighted with outcome
Professional at every stage
Elevates everyday life
Meticulous attention to detail
Exceeded expectations
Services
Full Service
Our Full Service offering covers complete architectural solutions from concept to completion. This includes 40+ detailed construction drawings, material specifications, and ongoing site supervision. Clients benefit from continuous guidance through planning approvals, builder selection, and construction phases. The service ensures design integrity is maintained throughout, with regular progress monitoring and budget management to deliver high-quality outcomes that meet both functional and aesthetic requirements.
Building Permit Service
The Building Permit Service provides essential documentation for regulatory approval. This includes up to 10 drawings detailing external materials and layout, enabling clients to manage construction directly. Ideal for simpler projects, it offers cost-effective access to architectural design while allowing client-led execution. The service ensures compliance with building codes while maintaining design quality and functional requirements for successful permit acquisition.
People
Bianca Scaife
Director
Bianca Scaife co-founded Cooper Scaife Architects after graduating with first-class honours from RMIT. With international experience in Melbourne, Hong Kong, and the Netherlands, she leads design innovation while maintaining strong client relationships. Bianca's expertise spans residential and commercial projects, with a focus on sustainable regional architecture.
Daniel Cooper
Principal Architect
Daniel Cooper co-founded the practice following his RMIT first-class honours degree. He oversees project delivery and technical excellence, combining global experience with local knowledge. Daniel specialises in complex commercial and community projects, ensuring rigorous budget control and design integrity across all stages of construction.
Xavier Renehan
Graduate of Architecture
Xavier Renehan contributes architectural design expertise to diverse projects. As a recent graduate, he brings fresh perspectives to residential and small-scale commercial developments while supporting the practice's sustainability initiatives. His work focuses on integrating modern design principles with practical construction solutions for regional Victoria.
Questions
What architectural services do you offer?
We provide Full Service and Building Permit Service options covering residential, commercial, and community projects from concept design to construction completion.
How are your fees structured?
Full Service fees range from 8-14% of construction cost, while Building Permit Service is approximately half that amount as a fixed fee.
Do you specialise in specific building types?
We work across residential, commercial, educational, and community projects without limiting to specific sectors, adapting our approach to each client's needs.
How do you incorporate sustainability?
We use passive thermal design, local materials, and energy-efficient solutions while maintaining carbon-neutral operations since 2020.
Can you assist with heritage projects?
Yes, we have extensive experience in heritage home alterations and conservation projects across western Victoria.
Do you work outside western Victoria?
While based in Hamilton, we operate throughout western Victoria and selectively take on regional projects requiring our expertise.