Business Details
36 Years
experience
Your Trusted Architectural Partner in Moonee Ponds
Merat has been operating as a specialist architectural practice since 1990, with our Moonee Ponds office established in 2005. Our firm has cultivated extensive expertise in designing hospital-related medical projects, laboratory facilities, and educational infrastructure through collaborations with prominent institutions like Northern Health and The University of Melbourne. We provide comprehensive architectural services spanning master planning, detailed documentation, and interior design. Our commitment to quality control aligns with Australian Standard AS 3900 and ISO 9001 certification, ensuring rigorous project management and client accountability.With decades of collective experience, our team delivers tailored solutions that balance functional requirements with environmental considerations. We maintain direct client engagement throughout all project phases, supported by strategic planning and continuous staff development initiatives. Our portfolio demonstrates proven capability in managing complex institutional projects while maintaining cost-effective material selections and energy-efficient design alternatives.
Services
Hospital Architecture
Laboratory Design
Educational Facilities
Heritage Projects
Commercial Architecture
Interior Design
Master Planning
Project Documentation
Contract Administration
Design Consultation
Details
- Year established: 1990
Highlights and features
- We offer 30+ years' experience in institutional architecture
- Our team provides direct principal-led project management
- ISO 9001-certified quality control processes
- Specialised expertise in medical and laboratory facility design
- Proven track record with Victorian public sector clients
Associations and certifications
- ISO 9001
- AS 3900
Services
Hospital Architecture
Specialist hospital and healthcare facility design with 30+ years' experience working on projects for Northern Health and The Royal Melbourne Hospital. Our team delivers functional, compliant spaces that prioritise patient care and operational efficiency. We manage all stages from initial brief development to construction administration.
Laboratory Design
Custom laboratory design services incorporating specialist engineering requirements and safety standards. We create flexible, future-ready research environments for institutions like the Walter & Eliza Hall Institute. Our designs optimise workflow efficiency while maintaining strict compliance with technical specifications.
Project Documentation
Comprehensive architectural documentation using AutoCAD format with detailed specifications and technical schedules. We produce tender-ready drawings including floor plans, elevations, and construction details. Our documentation ensures accurate cost estimation and smooth construction processes.
Contract Administration
Full contract administration services managing builder selection, tender evaluation, and construction phase oversight. We provide regular site inspections, progress claims assessment, and variation management. Our team ensures compliance with design specifications and contractual obligations throughout project delivery.
Design Consultation
Expert design consultation services for institutional and commercial projects. We help clients develop functional briefs, explore design options, and navigate planning approvals. Our consultation includes cost analysis, material selection advice, and sustainability considerations.
People
Barry Merat
Principal
Founder and principal architect with 45+ years' experience. Graduated from Melbourne University in 1975 and registered architect with ARBV No. 13225. Leads all projects with direct oversight and creative direction.
Justin Cordell
AutoCAD Doc & Senior Administrator
Senior administrator since 2002 managing office documentation systems. Oversees electronic documentation standards and task allocation for technical staff. Ensures consistent documentation quality across all projects.
Yee Leng Chooi
Architect
Registered architect with ARBV No. 20387. Joined in 2019 working on public utilities and medical projects. Experienced in all design phases from concept to construction documentation.
Moke Li
Architect
Registered architect with ARBV No. 800677. Specialises in institutional and commercial projects. Handles design development through construction phases with focus on technical detailing.
Questions
What architectural services do you specialise in?
We specialise in hospital and medical facilities, laboratory design, educational institutions, and commercial architecture. Our expertise extends to heritage projects and residential developments.
How long have you been in business?
Merat Architects has been operating since 1990, with our current Moonee Ponds office established in 2005. We have completed projects across Victoria.
What project delivery methodology do you use?
We follow a structured four-phase process: Sketch Design, Design Development, Contract Documentation, and Contract Administration. This ensures comprehensive coverage from concept to completion.
Are you ISO certified?
Yes, our quality control systems comply with ISO 9001 and Australian Standard AS 3900. This ensures consistent project delivery and client accountability.
Do you work with public sector clients?
We have extensive experience with Victorian public sector clients including Northern Health, Country Fire Authority Victoria, and The University of Melbourne.
How are project fees determined?
Fees are assessed on a project-by-project basis considering size, complexity, and required services. We provide transparent cost breakdowns aligned with project scope.
