How to Find the Right Architect Near You – A Northern Beaches Guide

Looking for an architect near you on Sydney’s Northern Beaches? Whether you’re planning a new home, coastal retreat or thoughtful renovation, choosing the right architect is one of the most important early decisions you’ll make.

Why Write This?

As architects, we know it might seem unusual to publish a guide about how to find an architect. But the reality is that a successful project depends on more than just good design — it depends on finding the right fit.

Architecture is a deeply collaborative process. The relationship between client and architect needs to be grounded in trust, clarity and shared ambition. Not every architect will suit every client — and that’s okay.

We’ve written this guide to help you ask the right questions, look for the right signals, and ultimately choose a design partner who understands how you want to live. Because when that fit is right, the process becomes something greater than just a service — it becomes a creative partnership.

At Buck & Simple, we believe architecture should be ambitious, grounded in place, and deeply responsive to how you live. Here’s what to consider when searching for the right design partner — and how to tell if you’ve found them.

What to Look for in an Architect Near You

Not all architects are created equal. If you’re searching “architects near me” in Google, you’ll likely get a mix of results — some relevant, some generic. Here’s how to cut through the noise:

Local Knowledge Matters

Working with a local architect who understands the Northern Beaches context — from coastal weather to council regulations — will save time, reduce stress, and lead to better outcomes.

Design Alignment

Look through their portfolio. Does their work reflect the kind of space you want to live in — calm, connected, and considered?

Read more in our article:
The Case for Ambitious Architecture 

Process Transparency

A great architect should clearly explain the process — from concept design and council DA approvals to documentation and construction. We see ourselves as the conduit for translating high level concept design to real world construction data and act as an intermediary between client and contractor to ensure the end result is as intended.

Deep Listening

You don’t need someone to talk about architecture. You need someone to ask the right questions about how you want to live.

How to Start Your Search (Beyond Google)

Google searches like “best architects near Manly” or “eco architect Northern Beaches” are a good start — but go deeper:

• Leverage Social Media – Instagram being such a visual platform is a great resource. With many Architects sharing their content and insights into their process. Hashtags like #northernbeachesarchitects or #australianarchitecture are a good place to start
• Ask locals – Recommendations from friends, builders or designers who’ve worked with local firms are invaluable.
• Walk the neighbourhood – If you spot a home that resonates, don’t be afraid to ask who designed it.
• Check social proof – Look for testimonials, case studies, and evidence of successful collaborations. Pages like Co-Architecture, Hunting for George, Habitus Living & the local Project are all fantastic platforms.
• Pinterest is a treasure trove and allows for saving multiple images and styles to build out a preference with many firms featuring their work

Why Local Architecture Matters — Especially on the Coast

Living by the coast offers incredible light, views, and lifestyle — but it also requires architectural responses that can withstand weather, maximise passive design, and blur indoor-outdoor thresholds.

We explore this further in:
Designing Coastal Architecture with Purpose

Finding an Architect Near You — FAQs

How much does it cost to hire an architect in the Northern Beaches?

It depends on project complexity, but a good architect should offer clarity and options tailored to your brief. buck&simple prioritises a full service design commission providing complete architectural, joinery and interior construction packages for our clients.

Should I work with an architect or a building designer?

Architects are legally registered, trained in design and construction, and are especially valuable for custom, high-quality residential work.

What suburbs do you serve?

We work across the Northern Beaches — from Manly, Freshwater, and Curl Curl, up to Avalon, Bilgola, and Palm Beach.

Ready to Talk?

If you’re looking for an architect near you who listens deeply, designs intelligently, and delivers with care — we’d love to hear about your project.

Contact Buck & Simple to book a free discovery call.