If you’re thinking about building or renovating in West End, a group of Brisbane architects and their clients are coming together to explain why working with a designer from the start could save you time, stress and money.
The panel discussion, The Benefits of Engaging an Architect, will take place on Sunday, 20 July 2025, from 2:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Flying Colours on Vulture Street in West End. The free community event is part of the Brisbane Open House program and encourages locals to explore how architectural support can lead to more thoughtful, functional and personalised homes.
Inside the Design Process
Three Brisbane-based architects—Aaron Peters from Vokes and Peters, Melody Chen from Atelier Chen Hung, and Rebecca Caldwell from Maytree Studios—will lead the session. Each of them has designed homes across different suburbs in Brisbane and will be joined by some of their past clients to speak about real-life renovations and builds.
The goal of the discussion is to share how professional design input early on can help homeowners make better-informed decisions, particularly around layout, liveability, council approvals and managing complex builds.
Rebecca Caldwell, Creative Director at Maytree Studios, has seen first-hand how guidance through the process can turn a daunting project into a rewarding one. She noted that when her studio helps manage the project, homeowners often feel more confident and enjoy the experience, rather than finding it overwhelming.
Architects Share What Matters Most
Each architect brings a unique approach to the conversation. Aaron Peters, whose practice is based in West End, believes good design starts with understanding the day-to-day lives of the people living in the home. His focus is on enhancing the character of each site to suit how people actually use the space.
Melody Chen, also based in West End, adds that architects provide spatial insight that helps turn complex site limitations into design strengths. Her studio aims to design homes that feel uplifting and intuitive, tailored to individual needs.
Together, the speakers will share what questions they ask, how their design processes work, and why homeowners should expect more from the spaces they live in.
Local Impact and Broader Invitation
While the event will be held in West End, the conversation is relevant to residents across Brisbane considering a build or renovation. Suburbs mentioned in connection with the speakers’ past work include Paddington, South Brisbane, St Lucia and Indooroopilly.
Lindy Johnson Creative, which supports architects with communications and business development, is co-presenting the panel along with Flying Colours, the West End venue hosting the event.
Attendees are encouraged to bring their questions to the panel, which includes a live Q&A. The discussion aims to be open, informative and community-focused—offering practical takeaways for anyone feeling unsure about where to begin with a home project.
Published 14-July-2025
