Building Designer / Architect

About Us Y Projects specialises in crafting contemporary period extensions in Melbourne’s most sought-after inner-city neighbourhoods. Our motivation stems from a deep passion for contemporary design, craftsmanship, and a commitment to helping clients maximise the potential of their dreams and budgets. We are revolutionising the traditional client-builder relationship by introducing a design, costing, and build process that prioritises not just the quality of the final outcome but also the journey itself. Our innovative, client-centric approach—what we call ‘building open book’—is supported…

About Us Y Projects specialises in crafting contemporary period extensions in Melbourne’s most sought-after inner-city neighbourhoods. Our motivation stems from a deep passion for contemporary design, craftsmanship, and a commitment to helping clients maximise the potential of their dreams and budgets. We are revolutionising the traditional client-builder relationship by introducing a design, costing, and build process that prioritises not just the quality of the final outcome but also the journey itself. Our innovative, client-centric approach—what we call ‘building open book’—is supported by a culture that emphasizes fun, enthusiasm, and staff growth, making us not only great to work with but also great to work for.

About the Role We are seeking a client-facing, experienced architect or building designer with a passion for innovative design. The ideal candidate will have expertise in period residential extensions and the ability to lead and establish the design arm of our business. Based in our Hawthorn office, the successful applicant will collaborate closely with our construction and estimating team to integrate design in-house into our already established construction business. You will oversee the design of projects from initial enquiry through to key handover, ensuring a seamless experience from concept to completion.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Collaborating with clients, consultants, and our in-house construction team to turn design concepts into buildable solutions.
• Conducting design and planning research, including site analysis and feasibility studies, to guide the design process and prepare presentations for clients.
• Preparing concept plans, planning submissions, construction documentation (including interiors, schedules, 3D visualizations, and other project deliverables).
• Working with construction and estimating teams to deepen your construction knowledge and detailing expertise, contributing to ongoing project improvements.
• Leading the development of systems and processes to establish the design arm of the business in collaboration with the director and office team.
• Initially supporting contract administration and estimating for existing and third-party projects until the design division grows.

What We’re Looking For

• Tertiary qualification in building design, architecture, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of proven experience in architectural design and project delivery, ideally with residential extension projects.
• Strong technical proficiency in design software like Revit or ArchiCAD, and 3D visualization tools such as Enscape or Lumion.
• Excellent problem-solving abilities, collaboration, and communication skills.
• Proven ability to lead the design arm of a business and manage client relationships.
• A passion for innovative architecture and creative design solutions.

What We Offer

• Opportunity to Lead and Innovate – Be at the forefront of establishing and leading the design arm of a growing business
• Collaboration with a Proven Team – Work alongside a successful construction and estimating team to integrate design seamlessly into our existing ECI process.
• Career Growth and Development – Join a culture that emphasizes staff growth, creativity, and leadership opportunities.
• Exciting, High-Quality Projects – Work on innovative period extensions in Melbourne’s premier inner-city suburbs.
• Positive and Fun Culture – Experience a workplace centred on fun, collaboration, and a supportive, growth-driven environment.

Please email your resume and portfolio to careers@yprojects.com.au