Office of Regional Architect

22/08/2026

The Matthews Rotunda was designed in 1996 by ORA Founder Rosalie Pech Eva for landscaped public gardens in Robinson Road, Brookton for John and Daphne Matthews, life-long community stalwarts. This generous gift to the Brookton community represents the Matthew's family's desire to give back to the community which they loved and which they felt had given them so much. The Rotunda occupies a prominent location in the main street, complementing the c1924 Old Railway Station precinct, and acting as a focus for tourist interest and community activity.

We are pairing this piece of history with Rosalie's original, hand-drawn architectural plans, which are incredibly detailed and accurate. Take a look at the beautiful craftsmanship that brought this community landmark to life!

15/08/2026

Based on our years in the industry, it's clear Australia is running desperately short on construction workers. You’d think the fix would be bringing in more skilled labour from overseas—but it isn't that simple.There is a hidden culprit blocking the pipeline.Check out our latest podcast episode to find out what's going on:

Chris and Alan Kohler talk about the housing crisis that is shaping...

14/08/2026

Good landscape design connects buildings to their local environment while supporting ecosystems and cooling spaces. Thoughtful, site-specific planning respects existing native vegetation to build better, sustainable communities. Read the full insights on the Office of Regional Architecture website. https://regionalarchitect.com.au/landscape-design/

11/08/2026

Credit, shout out to:
https://silvaandmustard.com/
https://designfreo.org/
How much does it cost to properly design a home and how much value does it bring back. We have an article talk about the value of design here: https://regionalarchitect.com.au/value-of-architecture-design-from-both-bank-value-perspective-but-also-lifecycle-saving-such-as-mainternance-and-health-impact/

08/08/2026

When we started restoring Dingley Dell House in Brookton, we knew every cracked mortar line had a story to tell. Now, we’re using laser scanning to lock those stories into a permanent digital twin. Swipe to see how we started vs. how we’re using modern tech to map out the future of Dingley Dell House. By turning our high-density point cloud scans into a precise 3D model, we’re preserving every single one of those historic stones with millimeter accuracy.

#𝘸𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘣𝘦𝘭𝘵

06/08/2026

Good landscape design connects buildings to their local environment while supporting ecosystems and cooling spaces. Thoughtful, site-specific planning respects existing native vegetation to build better, sustainable communities. Read the full insights on the Office of Regional Architecture website.

If you’ve ever stared at your backyard and thought “I have no idea where to start,” you’re not alone. Getting your outdoor space to look great in Western Australia comes with its own set of challenges…

02/08/2026

Thinking of renovating in WA? With new home builds costing up to 47% more than pre-pandemic, upgrading your existing space is the smartest financial move in 2026.But navigating the Western Australian market takes strategy:The Reality: WA renovation costs run 18% above the national average due to material freight and the FIFO trade squeeze.The Budget: Expect $3,300 to $4,700 per sqm, with full-home transformations averaging $177k to $590k+.The Buffer: Always set aside a 15% to 20% contingency for hidden 70s/80s structural surprises like asbestos or aging plumbing.The Logistics: Regional builds (like Geraldton, Albany, or Kalgoorlie) require extra planning for trade mobilisation and council approvals.Skip the guesswork. Lock in an architect-led concept and feasibility check before you touch a wall to save your budget and unlock your home’s true potential.👉 Read our ultimate beginner's guide: https://regionalarchitect.com.au/renovation-your-existing-home/

01/08/2026

Condensation part 2: Stud wall cavity protection and humidity control using a vapour permeable membrane.

31/07/2026

ORA was involved in the landscape design for the Shire of Pingelly SES building, helping shape the outdoor spaces surrounding the facility.
The landscape incorporates endemic native species selected to suit the local environment, creating a resilient, low-maintenance setting that enhances biodiversity and complements the surrounding landscape. It's rewarding to see the planting becoming established and the landscape taking shape.
This project was made possible through a valued collaboration with The Native Gardener, whose expertise in identifying appropriate endemic species helped inform the planting palette. Thanks also for sharing these photos of the landscape as it continues to establish.

30/07/2026

Tuan is a lot fatter than he looks in this photo, so watch out for someone who looks similar

Speaker Spotlight | Tuan Ngo

We're delighted to welcome Tuan Ngo, Director of the Office of Regional Architecture, to the WA Regional Architecture Symposium.

A landscape-driven architect, Tuan's work is guided by a pragmatic and resourceful approach that balances economic, social and ethical considerations. His projects respond thoughtfully to their environment, functioning as living structures within the communities they serve. Inspired by Western Australia's native landscapes, particularly the Karri forests, Tuan's design philosophy is grounded in a strong connection to place, sustainability and people.

Through his work, Tuan continues to advocate for architecture that is both resilient and responsive, creating meaningful outcomes that celebrate local identity while addressing the challenges of contemporary regional practice.

Outside the studio, Tuan enjoys cycling and cultivating endemic plants, pursuits that further inform his appreciation of the natural environment and the role it plays in shaping design.

📍 Caves House, Yallingup
📅 Friday 28 August 2026
🎓 5 Formal CPD Points
🍽️ Gala Dinner & Networking Included
🎟️ Early Bird tickets available until 8:00am AWST, 30 July 2026.

Secure your place now via the link in bio | architecture.com.au/events

Proudly sponsored by:
NATSPEC
Alspec
Rondo
Bondor Metecno

https://members.architecture.com.au/EventDetail?EventKey=WA260828&utm_name=sked&utm_source=wafacebook&utm_medium=social&utm_content=sked_6a66e429bf6e4a5d1e934283