Business Details
23 Years
experience
Award-Winning Sustainable Architecture in Melbourne
BENT Architecture is an innovative design practice established in 2003, based in Brunswick, Melbourne. Led by Directors Paul and Merran Porjazoski, we specialise in creating environmentally and socially sustainable built environments that prioritise human well-being and ecological responsibility. Our work spans residential, commercial, institutional, and community projects, integrating architecture, landscape, and urban design through a research-driven, collaborative process. Recognised with local and international awards, we are leaders in sustainable design, low-cost social housing, and green roof innovation. Our philosophy centres on three pillars: designing for people, respecting the environment, and infusing delight through creative, site-responsive solutions. With expertise in NDIS-funded disability accommodation and public housing, we deliver projects that balance functionality with aesthetic innovation.Our holistic approach includes feasibility studies, master planning, construction documentation, and post-occupancy services, ensuring client needs are met with precision and care. Backed by 20+ years of experience, we maintain strong relationships with stakeholders and consultants to achieve time and cost-effective outcomes. Our commitment to sustainability is evident in passive solar design, material efficiency, and landscape integration that reduces environmental impact while enhancing user comfort. From small renovations to large-scale developments, BENT Architecture creates spaces that inspire joy, foster community, and endure as timeless, functional landmarks.
Services
Residential Architecture
Green Roof Design
Social Housing
NDIS Accommodations
Urban Design
Interior Design
Landscape Integration
Master Planning
Sustainable Renovations
Public Space Design
Details
- Year established: 2003
Highlights and features
- We have 20+ years of experience in sustainable architectural design.
- Our projects integrate passive solar principles and energy-efficient materials.
- Specialists in NDIS-funded specialist disability accommodation.
- Award-winning expertise in green roof and wall systems.
- Holistic approach combining architecture, landscape, and urban design.
Services
Residential Architecture
Creating site-responsive homes that balance comfort, sustainability, and aesthetic innovation. Our residential projects range from new builds to renovations, prioritising natural light, thermal efficiency, and seamless indoor-outdoor connections. We specialise in multi-generational housing and compact urban dwellings that adapt to evolving family needs.
Green Roof Design
Pioneers in award-winning green roof and wall systems that reduce urban heat, manage stormwater, and create usable green spaces. Our designs incorporate native vegetation, lightweight substrates, and irrigation solutions tailored to building structures and microclimates across commercial and residential projects.
Social Housing
Developing dignified, cost-effective housing solutions for vulnerable communities. Our public housing projects feature modular construction, shared amenity spaces, and universal design principles to create inclusive neighbourhoods that foster social interaction and long-term resident well-being.
NDIS Accommodations
Designing Specialist Disability Accommodation that meets strict compliance standards while prioritising resident autonomy and comfort. Features include adaptable layouts, sensory-friendly materials, and accessible outdoor areas that support independent living and carer accessibility.
Urban Design
Shaping vibrant public realms through masterplans that integrate transport, green infrastructure, and mixed-use developments. We create pedestrian-friendly streetscapes, civic spaces, and transit-oriented designs that enhance urban livability while addressing climate resilience and population growth challenges.
People
Paul Porjazoski
Director
Co-founder with 20+ years experience in sustainable architecture. Leads design innovation and project strategy, specialising in complex urban infill projects and green infrastructure integration.
Merran Porjazoski
Director
Co-founder and sustainability advocate. Oversees environmental design principles and community engagement processes, with expertise in social housing and adaptive reuse projects across Australia.
Questions
What architectural styles does BENT Architecture specialise in?
We focus on modern, functional designs that respond to site conditions and client needs. Our work blends contemporary aesthetics with sustainable materials and passive solar principles.
Can you assist with NDIS housing applications?
Yes, we guide clients through SDA compliance requirements and funding processes, ensuring designs meet specialist disability accommodation standards while maintaining design excellence.
Do you work on heritage building renovations?
Yes, we have extensive experience in heritage-sensitive extensions and adaptive reuse projects that preserve historical elements while introducing modern, sustainable upgrades.
What sustainability certifications do your buildings achieve?
While we target certifications like Green Star and LEED when appropriate, our focus is on inherent sustainability through passive design, local materials, and energy-efficient systems rather than prescriptive benchmarks.
How are construction costs managed during projects?
We employ value management workshops and staged cost reviews to maintain budget alignment without compromising design integrity, working closely with quantity surveyors and contractors.
Can you design for extreme climate conditions?
Our passive design strategies address Australia's diverse climates through thermal massing, cross-ventilation, and material selection that reduces reliance on mechanical heating and cooling systems.
