Testimonials
WHAT PEOPLE SAY ABOUT US
We engaged Rob for renovations at our house. Our place was built in 1991, and since buying it three years ago, we have wanted to modernise it and make it our own.
We sought to engage an architect to help us achieve our goals of achieving a step change in value for our house – by changing the internal layout to include an additional bedroom – while also modernising the aesthetics of the home.
After doing some research into a few different architects, we selected Rob as we liked his approach from the outset. He was responsive, professional, he very clearly knew his craft well, and he understood what we wanted to achieve. His proposal was very clear and we understood all potential costs from the outset.
Rob helped us first by producing a number of concept designs for our renovations. After measuring up our house, Rob produced a few concept designs. We went back and forth a few times, and enjoyed the opportunity to discuss plans over coffee meetings over Zoom. We weren’t sure initially what we wanted, so we appreciated Rob’s approach with us: patient, but also responsive to our questions and comments. In the end we arrived at a concept that we truly believed was our best option.
Rob then worked with us through the detailed design and tendering phase. Rob’s work was exceptional here: he produced high quality drawings and designs, and engaged with other trades as needed in this phase (including a structural engineer and a building surveyor). Rob helped us to navigate the tender process, which saw us appoint a builder and obtain a building permit from Council for our works.
As an indication of Rob’s high quality and attention to detail, one of the tenderers even praised Rob for the high quality of his drawings, stating it was ‘nice to see that some people still care about quality of work, which seems to be very rare nowadays in the building industry’.
We would strongly recommend Rob Harris to anyone who is looking for an architect to modernise an existing home, or for a new build. What we liked most about working with Rob was that he listened to us and understood what we wanted to achieve. He brought many expert ideas to his plans but listened to what we wanted and understood our style preferences; he didn’t just try to push us in a direction he wanted to go. Overall, it all felt seamless and it was a very pleasant customer experience.
We feel so fortunate and grateful to have had Rob work with us on our challenging project.
We are first time renovators/builders with no contacts or experience in the industry and, after a very disappointing experience with the first designer we worked with, we desperately needed someone who would look after us.
I was over 9 months pregnant when we realised we needed a new designer, after our first designer let us down badly. Fortuitously, Rob was recommended to us by a local builder. Rob came to our house for the first meeting within days after first making contact. I explained some of the disappointments (particularly lengthy delays), with the previous designer and he said ‘you won’t get any of that with me’.
Rob gave us a very reasonable cost proposal and started work on measurements, surveys and first design drafts within days.
In the design process, Rob was always willing to hear feedback, consider alternatives we might think of and re-cut ideas. He listened to us rather than imposing his own ideas inflexibly. That said, he was open and honest with his opinions and would point out any flaws or areas for improvement all while respecting our ideas or preferences.
We hit some very difficult hurdles with the local council as our home is a semi-detached Edwardian, on a reasonably small block with a heritage overlay.
Rob worked tirelessly with the council, navigated the advertising and objection process almost completely behind the scenes, re-cut our design many times and eventually managed to deliver a design that met our brief and satisfy the largely inflexible council requirements.
During the builder tender process, Rob again looked after our interests. He fairly tendered the job to multiple builders and again, was open and honest with us about his views on all of the builders who tendered. He was the partner and sounding board we had desperately needed.
Our son is now 2.5 years old and we are in the build stage and are keeping in touch with Rob regularly including as a sounding board for our interior design ideas. We can’t wait to see and live in the finished product which will be the output of Rob’s great work and a great partnership.
Rob Harris has been fantastic.
His main qualities we have enjoyed are his very prompt communication, his advice and obvious expertise.
We love his design.
We also loved how Robs personality has showed a fair and understanding approach to us as clients.
At stages it hasn’t been easy for him to answer the many emails and questions I have thrown at him.
We aren’t finished on our journey yet but have no hesitation in recommending him.
Thanks Rob.
We are really grateful to have worked so closely with Rob on our worker’s cottage in Elsternwick.
He demonstrates an acute attention to detail, is pragmatic and has unmatched efficiency – a combination of characteristics that are hard to come by.
To demonstrate this, within hours of hiring Rob he had conducted a site visit and began arranging the appropriate consultants to keep the project moving. This pace was maintained throughout the project, despite unforeseen & necessary pivots along the way.
Our project, like all renovations, had unique complexities attached to it. Rob was professional and honest, and guided us through each stage gate beautifully.
Our project could not have been completed to the standard it was without Rob. As such, we have already, and will continue to, recommend Elements of Home to those seeking to renovate their home.
- Practical Design ideas. Rob’s got a great balance between leading edge design and the practicality and usability for a family
- Cost Conscious. Quality is key in his design, but he is also very aware on areas that could have alternative materials/ ideas for cost reduction
- Planning knowledge. Great experience of knowing what ‘could delay’ Planning
- Ego. Great style in listening to what you want, and not too precious to try and always force his ideas.
- Reliability. His strongest area without a doubt – Rob’s response times were always so fast. Nothing sits with him for long, keeping momentum ticking along nicely
- Style. It’s hard not to get on well with him. Might be due to the above reasons or simply that he is generally nice.
We spoke to 4 different Architects during our initial design stage – Rob was the best, easiest and right choice.
Rob did a great job guiding a new owner-builder like me through the process of getting a building permit for our verandah and deck extension.
Not only did Rob draft all of the drawings required for the build, but also helped me secure the services of a civil engineer and private building surveyor.
Rob has been extremely patient and knowledgable throughout the entire build process, and I cannot recommend his services enough. Thank-you Rob!
Thank you so much for all of your work on the plans for our renovation! You’ve designed a house for us that will suit us perfectly for many years to come.
You helped steer us through the process of our first renovation and made it all much more straight forward and easy to manage. Thanks for your responsiveness and understanding with the many (self-inflicted) challenges we created along the way!
Hopefully we can work with you again in the future on another project.
Georgina and David, Hughesdale
Trevor and I would like to thank Rob for making the whole renovation process so easy!
Within a week of engaging Rob,he was out at our place discussing our requirements and measuring up plans. Shortly thereafter, we had our first set of drawings – Rob then worked with us to make minor revisions and finalise the plans. He was always available to talk and responded to any questions very quickly.
In addition to the architectural side, Rob also assisted with all the additional paperwork (soil tests, permits etc) which made the process easier as we had one point of contact – no hassle!!
As we didn’t have a specific builder in mind, Rob was proactive in assisting us with obtaining quotes and providing recommendations. We ended up selecting a builder recommended by Rob, and as expected, the builder has been fantastic to deal with as well.
We would happily recommend Rob to anyone – brilliant service, logical plans and provides end to end support.
We feel so fortunate and grateful to have had Rob work with us on our challenging project.
We are first time renovators/builders with no contacts or experience in the industry and, after a very disappointing experience with the first designer we worked with, we desperately needed someone who would look after us.
I was over 9 months pregnant when we realised we needed a new designer, after our first designer let us down badly. Fortuitously, Rob was recommended to us by a local builder. Rob came to our house for the first meeting within days after first making contact. I explained some of the disappointments (particularly lengthy delays), with the previous designer and he said ‘you won’t get any of that with me’.
Rob gave us a very reasonable cost proposal and started work on measurements, surveys and first design drafts within days.
In the design process, Rob was always willing to hear feedback, consider alternatives we might think of and re-cut ideas. He listened to us rather than imposing his own ideas inflexibly. That said, he was open and honest with his opinions and would point out any flaws or areas for improvement all while respecting our ideas or preferences.
We hit some very difficult hurdles with the local council as our home is a semi-detached Edwardian, on a reasonably small block with a heritage overlay.
Rob worked tirelessly with the council, navigated the advertising and objection process almost completely behind the scenes, re-cut our design many times and eventually managed to deliver a design that met our brief and satisfy the largely inflexible council requirements.
During the builder tender process, Rob again looked after our interests. He fairly tendered the job to multiple builders and again, was open and honest with us about his views on all of the builders who tendered. He was the partner and sounding board we had desperately needed.
Our son is now 2.5 years old and we are in the build stage and are keeping in touch with Rob regularly including as a sounding board for our interior design ideas. We can’t wait to see and live in the finished product which will be the output of Rob’s great work and a great partnership.
Rob Harris has been fantastic.
His main qualities we have enjoyed are his very prompt communication, his advice and obvious expertise.
We love his design.
We also loved how Robs personality has showed a fair and understanding approach to us as clients.
At stages it hasn’t been easy for him to answer the many emails and questions I have thrown at him.
We aren’t finished on our journey yet but have no hesitation in recommending him.
Thanks Rob.
We are really grateful to have worked so closely with Rob on our worker’s cottage in Elsternwick.
He demonstrates an acute attention to detail, is pragmatic and has unmatched efficiency – a combination of characteristics that are hard to come by.
To demonstrate this, within hours of hiring Rob he had conducted a site visit and began arranging the appropriate consultants to keep the project moving. This pace was maintained throughout the project, despite unforeseen & necessary pivots along the way.
Our project, like all renovations, had unique complexities attached to it. Rob was professional and honest, and guided us through each stage gate beautifully.
Our project could not have been completed to the standard it was without Rob. As such, we have already, and will continue to, recommend Elements of Home to those seeking to renovate their home.
- Practical Design ideas. Rob’s got a great balance between leading edge design and the practicality and usability for a family
- Cost Conscious. Quality is key in his design, but he is also very aware on areas that could have alternative materials/ ideas for cost reduction
- Planning knowledge. Great experience of knowing what ‘could delay’ Planning
- Ego. Great style in listening to what you want, and not too precious to try and always force his ideas.
- Reliability. His strongest area without a doubt – Rob’s response times were always so fast. Nothing sits with him for long, keeping momentum ticking along nicely
- Style. It’s hard not to get on well with him. Might be due to the above reasons or simply that he is generally nice.
We spoke to 4 different Architects during our initial design stage – Rob was the best, easiest and right choice.
Rob did a great job guiding a new owner-builder like me through the process of getting a building permit for our verandah and deck extension.
Not only did Rob draft all of the drawings required for the build, but also helped me secure the services of a civil engineer and private building surveyor.
Rob has been extremely patient and knowledgable throughout the entire build process, and I cannot recommend his services enough. Thank-you Rob!
Trevor and I would like to thank Rob for making the whole renovation process so easy!
Within a week of engaging Rob,he was out at our place discussing our requirements and measuring up plans. Shortly thereafter, we had our first set of drawings – Rob then worked with us to make minor revisions and finalise the plans. He was always available to talk and responded to any questions very quickly.
In addition to the architectural side, Rob also assisted with all the additional paperwork (soil tests, permits etc) which made the process easier as we had one point of contact – no hassle!!
As we didn’t have a specific builder in mind, Rob was proactive in assisting us with obtaining quotes and providing recommendations. We ended up selecting a builder recommended by Rob, and as expected, the builder has been fantastic to deal with as well.
We would happily recommend Rob to anyone – brilliant service, logical plans and provides end to end support.
- Practical Design ideas. Rob’s got a great balance between leading edge design and the practicality and usability for a family
- Cost Conscious. Quality is key in his design, but he is also very aware on areas that could have alternative materials/ ideas for cost reduction
- Planning knowledge. Great experience of knowing what ‘could delay’ Planning
- Ego. Great style in listening to what you want, and not too precious to try and always force his ideas.
- Reliability. His strongest area without a doubt – Rob’s response times were always so fast. Nothing sits with him for long, keeping momentum ticking along nicely
- Style. It’s hard not to get on well with him. Might be due to the above reasons or simply that he is generally nice.
We spoke to 4 different Architects during our initial design stage – Rob was the best, easiest and right choice.
Trevor and I would like to thank Rob for making the whole renovation process so easy!
Within a week of engaging Rob,he was out at our place discussing our requirements and measuring up plans. Shortly thereafter, we had our first set of drawings – Rob then worked with us to make minor revisions and finalise the plans. He was always available to talk and responded to any questions very quickly.
In addition to the architectural side, Rob also assisted with all the additional paperwork (soil tests, permits etc) which made the process easier as we had one point of contact – no hassle!!
As we didn’t have a specific builder in mind, Rob was proactive in assisting us with obtaining quotes and providing recommendations. We ended up selecting a builder recommended by Rob, and as expected, the builder has been fantastic to deal with as well.
We would happily recommend Rob to anyone – brilliant service, logical plans and provides end to end support.
- Practical Design ideas. Rob’s got a great balance between leading edge design and the practicality and usability for a family
- Cost Conscious. Quality is key in his design, but he is also very aware on areas that could have alternative materials/ ideas for cost reduction
- Planning knowledge. Great experience of knowing what ‘could delay’ Planning
- Ego. Great style in listening to what you want, and not too precious to try and always force his ideas.
- Reliability. His strongest area without a doubt – Rob’s response times were always so fast. Nothing sits with him for long, keeping momentum ticking along nicely
- Style. It’s hard not to get on well with him. Might be due to the above reasons or simply that he is generally nice.
We spoke to 4 different Architects during our initial design stage – Rob was the best, easiest and right choice.
Trevor and I would like to thank Rob for making the whole renovation process so easy!
Within a week of engaging Rob,he was out at our place discussing our requirements and measuring up plans. Shortly thereafter, we had our first set of drawings – Rob then worked with us to make minor revisions and finalise the plans. He was always available to talk and responded to any questions very quickly.
In addition to the architectural side, Rob also assisted with all the additional paperwork (soil tests, permits etc) which made the process easier as we had one point of contact – no hassle!!
As we didn’t have a specific builder in mind, Rob was proactive in assisting us with obtaining quotes and providing recommendations. We ended up selecting a builder recommended by Rob, and as expected, the builder has been fantastic to deal with as well.
We would happily recommend Rob to anyone – brilliant service, logical plans and provides end to end support.
- Practical Design ideas. Rob’s got a great balance between leading edge design and the practicality and usability for a family
- Cost Conscious. Quality is key in his design, but he is also very aware on areas that could have alternative materials/ ideas for cost reduction
- Planning knowledge. Great experience of knowing what ‘could delay’ Planning
- Ego. Great style in listening to what you want, and not too precious to try and always force his ideas.
- Reliability. His strongest area without a doubt – Rob’s response times were always so fast. Nothing sits with him for long, keeping momentum ticking along nicely
- Style. It’s hard not to get on well with him. Might be due to the above reasons or simply that he is generally nice.
We spoke to 4 different Architects during our initial design stage – Rob was the best, easiest and right choice.
Trevor and I would like to thank Rob for making the whole renovation process so easy!
Within a week of engaging Rob,he was out at our place discussing our requirements and measuring up plans. Shortly thereafter, we had our first set of drawings – Rob then worked with us to make minor revisions and finalise the plans. He was always available to talk and responded to any questions very quickly.
In addition to the architectural side, Rob also assisted with all the additional paperwork (soil tests, permits etc) which made the process easier as we had one point of contact – no hassle!!
As we didn’t have a specific builder in mind, Rob was proactive in assisting us with obtaining quotes and providing recommendations. We ended up selecting a builder recommended by Rob, and as expected, the builder has been fantastic to deal with as well.
We would happily recommend Rob to anyone – brilliant service, logical plans and provides end to end support.
- Practical Design ideas. Rob’s got a great balance between leading edge design and the practicality and usability for a family
- Cost Conscious. Quality is key in his design, but he is also very aware on areas that could have alternative materials/ ideas for cost reduction
- Planning knowledge. Great experience of knowing what ‘could delay’ Planning
- Ego. Great style in listening to what you want, and not too precious to try and always force his ideas.
- Reliability. His strongest area without a doubt – Rob’s response times were always so fast. Nothing sits with him for long, keeping momentum ticking along nicely
- Style. It’s hard not to get on well with him. Might be due to the above reasons or simply that he is generally nice.
We spoke to 4 different Architects during our initial design stage – Rob was the best, easiest and right choice.
Trevor and I would like to thank Rob for making the whole renovation process so easy!
Within a week of engaging Rob,he was out at our place discussing our requirements and measuring up plans. Shortly thereafter, we had our first set of drawings – Rob then worked with us to make minor revisions and finalise the plans. He was always available to talk and responded to any questions very quickly.
In addition to the architectural side, Rob also assisted with all the additional paperwork (soil tests, permits etc) which made the process easier as we had one point of contact – no hassle!!
As we didn’t have a specific builder in mind, Rob was proactive in assisting us with obtaining quotes and providing recommendations. We ended up selecting a builder recommended by Rob, and as expected, the builder has been fantastic to deal with as well.
We would happily recommend Rob to anyone – brilliant service, logical plans and provides end to end support.