At P A R A we believe that engagement in our immediate surroundings directly impacts on our sense of wellbeing. How we relate to the spaces and landscapes that we inhabit has a profound influence on the soul. Architecture is how humanity mediates its relationship with the natural world. It is a dynamic relationship that has layers of meaning and significance. Its effects flow in both directions.

The making of architecture must be informed by the immediate context, the needs of its inhabitants, wider environmental concerns, its contribution to the social fabric. These layers change over time, so architecture needs to be adaptable, flexible, and responsive.

Our ultimate aim is to provide a timeless aesthetic that is at once contemporary and free of stylistic trend. The best architecture creates spaces that are pragmatic and programmatic, but which also strive to capture the essence of a classic. The dynamics of this interplay allows architecture to transcend physicality and descriptors that are usually the domain of the arts come into play: poetic, ironic, musical, lyrical, rhythmic, utopian, heroic.

DESIGN APPROACH

We approach design as a series of investigations and problem-solving exercises. It is an exciting journey that we undertake with our clients where communication is key. Design is a continual process of iterative refinement. Each iteration builds on the previous and draws into itself more layers of meaning and significance.

Design is a unique synthesis of contingencies. We try to capture and express all the layers of context, thought, meaning and action that are present at each site. We believe a successful design is achieved when the best possible solution meets the pragmatic while retaining a sense of the artistic.

We hope that the end product of this process is an architecture of understated refinement that effortlessly embodies the hard work and thoughtfulness behind each detail. It should create an experience of delight.

PRACTICE

P A R A is an architectural design practice based in Sydney’s lower north shore. We are a partnership that has gained an extensive range of project experience in the industry, from bespoke housing to multi-million dollar mixed use apartment developments. We are knowledgeable with all aspects of the building design, planning, approval, and documentation stages.

P A R A is a Member of the Australian Institute of Architects and the partnership maintains Continuing Professional Development and Professional Indemnity for architectural registration in NSW.

We acknowledge the Gadigal of the Eora Nation, the traditional custodians of this land and pay respects to the Elders both past and present.

Nominated Architect Raymond Fung NSW 8512