Business Details
16 Years
experience
Award-Winning Brisbane Architects | PHAB Architects
PHAB Architects is an award-winning design practice established in 2010 by Brant Harris and Ashley Paine. Our expertise lies in creating innovative residential, commercial, and heritage architecture solutions that balance contemporary needs with cultural preservation. Brant Harris brings over two decades of experience in housing, education, and commercial projects, complemented by his academic background in cultural heritage. Ashley Paine contributes a research-driven approach to design and masterplanning, supported by his academic role at the University of Queensland. Our work has earned recognition through state and national awards from the National Trust and the Australian Institute of Architects. We specialize in adaptive reuse of historic structures, particularly pre-1946 Queenslander houses, applying established heritage principles to modern living requirements.Our portfolio demonstrates a commitment to design excellence across diverse project types, including public buildings, interiors, and small-scale interventions. With qualifications from leading Australian universities and active involvement in architectural education, we maintain a practice that values both technical precision and creative exploration. Our projects have been widely published, reflecting our dedication to advancing architectural discourse through built outcomes that respect historical context while embracing contemporary innovation.
Services
New Houses
Renovations
Heritage Projects
Adaptive Reuse
Commercial Architecture
Interior Design
Public Buildings
Design Competitions
Details
- Year established: 2010
Highlights and features
- Award-winning architects with national recognition from Australian Institute of Architects
- Specialists in heritage architecture and Queenslander house adaptations
- Combined 40+ years experience in residential and commercial projects
- Academic expertise from University of Queensland and Queensland University of Technology
- Commitment to sustainable design through adaptive reuse of historic buildings
Services
New Houses
We create bespoke contemporary homes that respond to site conditions and client needs while maintaining contextual sensitivity. Our designs integrate sustainable principles and modern materials with functional living spaces. Each project benefits from our deep understanding of Queensland's architectural heritage and climate-specific requirements.
Heritage Projects
Specializing in heritage architecture, we restore and adapt historic buildings using established conservation principles. Our expertise includes working with pre-1946 Queenslander houses and commercial heritage structures. We balance preservation requirements with modern functionality to extend building lifespans while maintaining cultural significance.
Renovations
We transform existing homes through thoughtful renovations that enhance livability while respecting original architectural character. Our approach combines spatial innovation with heritage sensitivity, particularly for older Queensland properties. Projects range from kitchen/bathroom upgrades to comprehensive home transformations.
Adaptive Reuse
We specialize in creatively repurposing existing structures for new functions while preserving historical elements. This includes converting heritage buildings into modern workspaces and transforming industrial sites into residential developments. Our solutions emphasize sustainability through material retention and energy-efficient upgrades.
Commercial Architecture
We design functional commercial environments that support business operations while making positive urban contributions. Our portfolio includes office fit-outs, retail spaces, and public buildings. Each project benefits from our attention to spatial efficiency, regulatory compliance, and aesthetic quality.
People
Brant Harris
Registered Architect
With over 20 years' experience, Brant specializes in residential and heritage architecture. He holds advanced qualifications in cultural heritage and is an international member of Australia ICOMOS. His expertise includes adapting historic buildings for modern use while maintaining their architectural integrity.
Ashley Paine
Architect & Academic
Ashley combines architectural practice with academic research at the University of Queensland. He has extensive experience in design competitions and public building projects. His work focuses on architectural history and theory, with particular interest in small-scale interventions and urban design.
Questions
What architectural services do you specialize in?
We specialize in residential design, heritage architecture, commercial projects, and adaptive reuse of historic buildings. Our award-winning work includes new houses, renovations, and design competitions.
Do you work on heritage-listed properties?
Yes, we have extensive experience with heritage buildings including pre-1946 Queenslander houses. We apply established conservation principles to ensure appropriate modifications while maintaining historical significance.
What awards have you received?
Our work has received state and national awards from the National Trust and the Australian Institute of Architects for residential, commercial, and public architecture projects.
How do you approach sustainability?
We prioritize adaptive reuse of buildings to reduce environmental impact. Our designs incorporate passive cooling, natural lighting, and locally-sourced materials to create energy-efficient, sustainable spaces.
Do you work outside Brisbane?
While based in Brisbane, we work across Queensland and occasionally nationally. Our experience includes projects in regional areas like Toowoomba and Somerset Regional Council areas.
