Where are JAM Architects based?
We have two studios: Level 2, 7 Howard Street, Richmond, in Melbourne, and Suite 8, 400 Pakington Street, Newtown, in Geelong. The teams work together on projects across Melbourne, Geelong, the Bellarine Peninsula, the Surf Coast and regional Victoria.
What kind of projects do you design?
Residential, multi-residential, mixed use and commercial architecture for private, corporate and government clients, from private homes and heritage alterations to apartment buildings, offices and whole precincts. We also provide master planning, interior design and 3D visualisation in house.
Can you help with planning permits and VCAT?
Yes. We prepare planning applications, negotiate with councils and represent clients at VCAT. Our founding director Chris Manton has appeared at VCAT as an expert witness. See Planning Permits & VCAT.
How long has JAM Architects been practising?
JAM Architects was founded in 1998. The Geelong studio opened in 2020 to complement the Melbourne practice.
Do you design sustainable buildings?
Yes. Environmentally sustainable design is part of every brief, from passive design and material choice to projects assessed under Green Star and NABERS. Nicholson Offices was designed with a 5 Star NABERS rating as a key driver.
Which parts of Melbourne do you work in?
Across metropolitan Melbourne, with a long record in the inner north, inner east and bayside suburbs, including Brunswick East, Collingwood, Richmond, Fitzroy North, Hawthorn, Kooyong, Parkville, Hampton and Footscray, and out to the Mornington Peninsula and Yarra Ranges.
Do you design apartments and townhouses in Melbourne?
Yes. Multi-residential work is a large part of the practice, from boutique terraces in Fitzroy North to Hampton Quarter and the buildings of East Brunswick Village. See Multi-Residential & Apartments.
Which areas does the Geelong studio cover?
Geelong and its suburbs, the Bellarine Peninsula, the Surf Coast and western Victoria. Recent work includes The Mill in Newtown, coastal homes in Point Lonsdale and Fingal, and the Bellarine Chocolate Co. on Point Richards Road.
Do you design coastal homes?
Yes. Our coastal houses in Point Lonsdale and Fingal are designed for their landscape, orientation and views, with natural materials that weather well. See Residential Homes.
How much do architects charge?
Fees depend on the size, complexity and scope of the project and on which stages you need us for. We provide a written fee proposal after our first meeting.
What happens at the first meeting?
We talk through your brief, site, budget and timing, give our first thoughts on planning and design, and explain how we would approach the project. There is no obligation.
Next step
Tell us about your project.
A site you are buying, a planning permit, a new home or a full precinct: start with a conversation with one of our directors.
Contact
Start with a conversation
Tell us about the site and what you have in mind. A director from our Melbourne or Geelong studio will come back to you to talk it through.