Zen Architects

Riccardo Zen

About Zen Architects

Respect, knowledge and a consideration for people and the natural environment define both our work and our design philosophy. Within our architecture, we aim to realise each client’s unique vision while also maximising the potential inherent in each site.

Our interest in contemporary culture and construction technology ensures that our buildings provide unprecedented design solutions that function at the highest level for life.

Zen Architects is an award winning, Melbourne based practice with 31 years experience in the design and development of environmentally, socially and financially sustainable buildings. Zen Architects was established in 1989 by Riccardo Zen. Our work is spread across Australia with a primary focus in inner Melbourne, the North and Eastern suburbs, coastal and rural regions of Victoria.

From inception to realisation our process exemplifies a high level of ecologically sustainable design in which ideas are tested, refined and followed through to completion.

Our construction knowledge is invaluable in developing accurate projections of cost and timing. This knowledge also plays an important role in our ability to determine the most viable forms, materials, finishes, systems and maintenance requirements for each project, ensuring that we both address the brief and meet the budget.

Through our commitment to supporting local design and manufacturing and in our efforts to bring affordable sustainable architecture to as many people as possible, we are not only a client-focused and forward-thinking practice but one that aims to positively impact the wider community.

LOCATION: Melbourne, Australia
LEARN MORE: zenarchitects.com

Carnegie House by Zen Architects

Carnegie Gallery House by Zen Architects

Carnegie Gallery House was created in response to our clients request for a compact home that would also allow them to create and exhibit their art collection. By placing a combined gallery and studio space upstairs and incorporating a large, north facing void over the living space below, the art is visible from all angles.

Autonomous House by Zen Architects 4

Autonomous House by Zen Architects

Architects: Zen Architects Project: Autonomous House Location: Jan Juc, Victoria, Australia The Autonomous House exemplifies our commitment to environmentally sound and eco-friendly design principles. We proposed a house that could harvest its own power and water and treat its own waste on site in response to the client’s values and the reality of difficult access

Laneway House by Zen Architects 9

Laneway House in Coburg / Zen Architects

Architects: Zen Architects Project: Laneway House in Coburg Location: Coburg, Victoria, Australia Photography: Emma Cross Inspired by Melbourne’s café culture, this eco-friendly residence adopts a communal approach to its functional and aesthetic design. Laneway House was designed by Zen Architects, an architecture practice based in Fitzroy North, Victoria. The kitchen and living rooms open fully to

Up-Cycled Warehouse by Zen Architects 9

Up-Cycled Warehouse / Zen Architects

Architects: Zen Architects Project: Up-Cycled Warehouse Location: Richmond, Melbourne, Australia Photography: Emma Cross Completed by Zen Architects, the Up-Cycled Warehouse project transforms a 1960’s warehouse into a comfortable, sustainable family home. Although the existing structure lacked the inherent beauty of older Victorian era factories, the unique character and history of this building were retained and enhanced

Ashburton Trail House by Zen Architects 2

Ashburton Trail House by Zen Architects

Architects: Zen Architects Project: Ashburton Trail House Project size:350 sqm Site size: 892 m2 Location: Ashburton, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia Photography: Emma Cross Designed by Zen Architects, the Ashburton Trail House is an immersive architectural experience, drawing the power of the Australian landscape into every space. Built on gently sloping land in suburban Melbourne, this contemporary and environmentally

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