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Budget and Cost Planning - a guest article
Cost Planning
Setting a realistic budget that matches your building goals is essential to keeping your project on track. A well-prepared cost plan helps you understand where your current design will lead financially—allowing you to adjust before costs spiral beyond your means. Early collaboration with a quantity surveyor ensures better budget management from the start, saving time and money.
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Measure Twice, Cut Once – A Lesson in Architecture
Article
At DiMase Architects, experience isn’t just measured in years — it’s a mindset. With over two decades of hands-on practice, we combine rigorous attention to detail with a commitment to continuous learning. From navigating complex compliance to pursuing advanced studies in lighting, sustainability, and building performance, our approach is grounded in care, precision, and professional growth.
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Designing with Purpose: What Sets DiMase Architects Apart
Article
Building your dream project starts with a team you can trust. With over 30 years of leadership experience, a collaborative and passionate studio culture, and trusted industry connections, DiMase Architects delivers exceptional design backed by meticulous attention to detail. Based in Fitzroy North and equipped with advanced technical resources, we guide you through every stage—from concept to completion—with genuine care and clear communication. Let us help you bring your unique vision to life.
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Building Strong Client Relationships in Architecture
Article
The success of any architectural project hinges on the relationship between the architect and the client. Trust, communication, and collaboration are key at every stage—from concept to completion. Open communication from the start helps address concerns promptly and ensures a smooth process. As projects evolve, client involvement may shift, and our role adapts accordingly to balance engagement with project efficiency. This flexible collaboration ensures that the end result is both functional and meaningful.
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Innovative Retrofit Solutions for Sustainable Architecture
Video
In a recent webinar hosted by Evitat, Antony DiMase highlighted the pivotal role of retrofitting in addressing climate change and improving urban living. The session explored how Passive House principles—such as superior insulation, airtight construction, and high-performance windows—can drastically reduce energy consumption and enhance comfort in buildings.
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Building Bridges: Niea Nadya on Design, Culture, and Finding Space
Podcast
In this episode of The Doyenne Interviews, we sit down with designer Niea Nadya, whose creative journey spans continents and cultures. From sketching wedding outfits in Indonesia to navigating the nuances of ‘Australian’ English in Melbourne, Niea shares a refreshingly honest and often humorous account of her path into architecture. With warmth and insight, she reflects on the challenges of relocation, identity, and finding her voice in a new professional landscape. A delightful listen filled with laughter and thoughtful moments.
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Crafting a Conscious Practice - Design That Matters
Podcast
Antony DiMase joins Matthew Cutler-Welsh on the Home Style Green podcast to discuss the moments that shaped his architectural values – from early university days and travels in Shanghai to his first renovation projects. He shares insights into DiMase Architects’ guiding philosophy of designing more with less, creating sustainable, healthy homes that tread lightly on the environment.
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Designing Comfort: A Sustainable Renovation in Fitzroy
Video
In our latest project with Alan, we were tasked with reimagining his Fitzroy home. Our design focus was on creating a functional family space that harmonized with the site’s unique challenges. Drawing on our deep familiarity with the local council’s regulations, we were able to guide the project smoothly from concept to completion. Alan embraced our approach to passive design, allowing the home to stay naturally comfortable throughout the seasons, minimizing the need for mechanical heating and cooling. The result? A home that feels just right, no matter the weather.
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Contingency - why every project needs one.
Article
Design is a process of conceiving ideas and testing those ideas against a range of parameters. It is often the testing of ideas and the scrutiny of project parameters that ensure that the model is fit for purpose when the project is realised. In building projects – which are highly complex – it is important that clients, architects and builders allow for a contingency.
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What ISO 9001 Means for Our Practice
Article
Since achieving ISO 9001 accreditation in 2018, we’ve refined—not reinvented—how we deliver our architectural services. Our streamlined quality system is simple, flexible, and effective, designed to anticipate challenges and enhance every project. Focused on client satisfaction, efficiency, and continuous improvement, this approach strengthens our design process without adding cost or complexity.
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Passive Warehouse
Article
We’re proud to share that our Passive Warehouse project, Jones, has been featured in Sanctuary Magazine. As our first venture into Passive House principles, this innovative warehouse conversion balances airtight construction, thoughtful insulation, and elegant design. While it wasn’t formally certified, the project achieved a 7 Star energy rating and showcases how Passive House strategies can be thoughtfully applied—even in retrofits. As architect Antony notes, “It’s architecturally pleasing… the environmental features aren’t tapping you on the shoulder—they’re just there in the infrastructure for the long term.”
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Harnessing Nature: The Power of Passive Solar Design
Article
Passive Solar Design uses the sun’s natural energy to heat and cool your home — no fancy tech required. Through smart orientation, shading, and thermal mass, your home can stay comfortable year-round while cutting energy bills and reducing environmental impact. Whether building new or renovating, passive design is a cost-effective, sustainable choice worth considering.
