TSAI DESIGN

We transform awkward, unconventional spaces into functional, joyful homes. 

YOU SEE QUIRKY AND DIFFICULT. WE SEE OPPORTUNITY AND POTENTIAL.

Tsai Design challenges buildings to step up; to make better use of the spaces they occupy, and to improve the lives of the people who reside in them.
SHOPFRONT HOUSE
HERITAGE HOUSE
APARTMENT FITOUT
ALL PROJECTS
“Our clients appreciate the balance of design and practicality, and our commitment to creating homes that are functional and beautiful.”

Jack Chen

OUR TEAM

Tsai Design is a small, versatile and experienced team that thrives on bringing your new home to life. From the very first sketch to handing over the keys, our team works hard – although our designs work harder.
Image of Jack Chen

JACK CHEN

DIRECTOR, TSAI DESIGN
Jack is a registered architect (VIC & NSW) and designer. He oversees all of tsai Design’s projects and makes sure the client experience is smooth sailing.  
AMANDINE SIMONETTI
Amandine is a registered architect (NSW) with 15 years’ experience in high-end residential developments. She is highly skilled at executing a project and thrives on collaborating with builders. Currently based in Sydney and runs our Sydney projects.
PAUL BOTES
Paul is a designer who has also worked as a carpenter and builder for eight years. With this background, he has first-hand knowledge and a grounded understanding of how things are put together. 
HIDY WONG
Hidy is a registered architect (VIC) and specialises in our interiors. She has an eye for second-hand furniture and finding the balance between custom furniture and ready-made pieces.

WHAT OUR CLIENTS SAY

Jack, your insight into how Saro and I live is evident, your ability to see the potential of the space and to create a new space that is functional and beautiful is visionary.
Steven
It has been a long journey, with lots of twists and turns..... but oh so worth it when we see our lovely home. It truly feels like us
Client name, Owner of Type street apartment
It has been a long journey, with lots of twists and turns..... but oh so worth it when we see our lovely home. It truly feels like us
Saro
“Devil is in the detail”, so the saying goes, here, the luxury is in the detail of the design.. Great job, Jack, till our next project!
Victor & Olivia
You have been very conscious of our funding issues... and tirelessly inventive in your design ideas to the point where we have a finished build that exceeds expectations at every level... we would heartily recommend your services to any future client.
Marina & Alex
Jack is a compassionate and knowledgeable architect who places his customers' well-being and benefits in the centre of his architectural design and practice... I highly recommend Jack's service to EVERYONE!
Cissy

OUR PROCESS & FEE

Our process is divided into two parts:
Part 1 is an introductory service, and Part 2 is the full architectural design service.
STEP 1
Part 1 - Introductory Design
Renovating your home is a significant investment, and it’s essential to feel confident you’re choosing the right architect for your vision. To support this, we’ve created an independent service so you can evaluate our approach before making a full commitment.

In this stage, we’ll explore your brief and test potential design solutions through an initial round of design. Typically, we present option(s) for you to compare, accompanied by an analysis of the pros, cons, and estimated costs of each.

This is a fixed-fee service of $3,000 + GST, with 50% payable upfront to secure your project and the balance due upon completion of Part 1.
STEP 4
Part 2 - Full Architectural Design Service
Our full architectural service is tailored to the unique needs of each project. The typical stages include:

1. Concept Design - Refining the design concept further
2. Town Planning - Preparing and submitting required planning applications
3. Design Development - Coordinating with consultants and conducting a detailed exploration of interior design
4. Documentation - Producing construction drawings for builders to price and construct from
5. Building Permit - Working with certifiers to obtain the necessary permits
6. Builder Selection - Managing the builder tender process and providing recommendations for selection.
7. Construction Management - Administering the building contract, responding to builders’ queries, and assessing progress payments

Not all projects require every stage. At the conclusion of Part 1, we will provide a tailored recommendation on which stages are necessary for your project.

The fee for Part 2 is calculated as a percentage of the total project cost. For the full service (all the stages), our fee typically ranges between 10-18% of the project’s total cost. The fee for Part 1 is credited toward the final Part 2 fee.

READY TO TRANSFORM YOUR HOUSE OR BLOCK INTO A FUNCTIONAL, JOYFUL HOME?

To chat with us about your house or project, please get in touch and we’ll arrange a phone or video call.
Email:      hello@tsaidesign.com.au
Mobile:  0480 239 876
Office:    68 Elizabeth Street Geelong West VIC 3218
We work predominately in Victoria & NSW, Australia.
tsai Design acknowledges and respects the Wadawurrung people who are the traditional custodians of these lands and waters