Byron Bay Architect
Homes shaped by landscape, light and the relaxed rhythm of the Northern Rivers.
Markham-Lee Architecture design refined, meaningful spaces that sit confidently within the Byron Bay environment.
With studios in both the Northern Rivers and Sydney Northern Beaches, MLA bring a broad depth of experience and a clear design ethos shaped by craft, rigour and an enduring sense of place.
Architecture Grounded in Byron Bay
Designing in Byron Bay requires a deep appreciation of how this unique environment shapes our daily life. Byron Bay architects Matt & Linda Markham-Lee work closely with the conditions of the region, responding to changing light, coastal air and the quiet presence of the hinterland. Their buildings settle into the landscape rather than compete with it.
The practice takes a measured and refined approach to every project. Materials are chosen for their honesty and longevity, and spaces are composed with a sense of calm that carries through the entire home. Practical needs are resolved with care so the architecture remains clear and assured.
Featured Projects
These projects offer an insight into MLA’s approach to residential architecture, alongside many other projects over the past 15yrs. Their projects are located all along the east coast, from Byron Bay to Sydney Northern Beaches and afar. Designing beautiful award winning homes, and often with complex sites and hazards; coastal exposure, bushfire, flood, steep sites, sensitive to community & environment, navigating detailed council approvals… Many years working in these environments have provided MLA with extraordinary experience as Byron Bay architects.
Designing for the Byron Region
Byron Bay architecture requires a careful response to climate, landscape and local conditions. MLA work as Byron Bay architects across varied sites in the Northern Rivers and understand what is needed for homes to perform well in this environment.
Climate and orientation
MLA consider how light, heat, shade and coastal breeze move across a Byron Bay site and shape the plan accordingly. This creates homes that work with the climate and feel comfortable throughout the seasons.
Planning, overlays and constraints
Byron Shire has specific planning controls, overlays and environmental constraints. MLA guide clients through this process and prepare the material needed for a smooth pathway from concept to approval.
Materiality and durability
Coastal homes in Byron Bay face humidity, salt air and changing weather. MLA specify durable materials and refined detailing that support longevity and maintain the clarity of the architecture over time.
Connection to land and lifestyle
MLA design homes that settle into the landscape and support the relaxed lifestyle of the Northern Rivers. The goal is architecture that feels genuine to Byron Bay, with spaces that open easily to the outdoors and frame the character of the site.
Architectural Services
As Byron Bay architects MLA provide a comprehensive architectural services across the wider Northern Rivers.
- New homes
- Renovations and additions
- Many building types; multi-residential, micro breweries and more
- Coastal and hinterland residential design
- Sustainable and passive design
- Interior design integration
- Development applications and planning pathways
- Detailed construction documentation
- Collaboration with our clients builders and consultants
- Construction phase involvement administering the building contract on your behalf
- Every project is tailored to its place, its purpose and the people who will live within it.
Our Process
1. Conversation and Site Analysis
Every project begins with understanding: the site, your lifestyle, your goals and how you want your home to feel.
2. Concept Design
Matt and Linda develop all concepts together, bringing two perspectives and a deep knowledge of structure, detail and landscape.
3. Planning and Approvals
Clear documentation and a considered approach to council requirements support a streamlined approval process.
4. Detailed Design and Documentation
Refinement of structure, materials, interiors and joinery creates a unified, buildable and crafted piece of architecture.
5. Builder Collaboration
MLA’s construction insight ensures clear communication, aligned expectations and a strong foundation for a successful build.
6. Construction Stage
They stay closely involved during construction, guiding design integrity, administering the building contract and supporting both client and builder.
About Markham-Lee Architecture
Matt and Linda established MLA in 2009 after working alongside some of Australia’s most respected architects. Their backgrounds include many years with Peter Stutchbury, Fergus Scott and Sam Marshall, contributing to award winning projects that continue to shape their approach.
Their architecture is guided by a sense of calm and a clear design intention. They are careful thinkers with the ability to resolve complex sites and varied environments, bringing the same level of care to coastal, hinterland and urban projects.
In 2023 they opened their Northern Rivers studio, expanding their practice beyond Sydney and allowing them to work closely with clients in Byron Bay and across the region. They now work between both studios, supporting projects throughout Australia.
Every project benefits from the involvement of both founders. Clients value their steady communication, considered guidance expertise and energy. They translate ideas into architecture which is elegant and enduring.
Local Expertise Across the Northern Rivers
MLA design homes across Byron Bay and the Northern Rivers, from Suffolk Park and Ewingsdale to Bangalow, Mullumbimby, Ocean Shores, Federal and Lennox Head. Working within these varied landscapes has shaped a thoughtful approach to designing homes that sit comfortably in their surroundings and feel right for the region.
Frequently Asked Questions
How early should we engage MLA
It is best to involve MLA at the beginning of a project. Early conversations help clarify the brief, budget and opportunities within the site.
Can MLA help us understand the approval pathway
Yes. MLA outline the relevant steps at the start of each project. The practice prepares the drawings and documents required and coordinates with the necessary consultants.
Does MLA assist with selecting a builder
Yes. MLA guide clients through the tender process and help identify builders suited to the scale and nature of the project.
What level of involvement does MLA have during construction
MLA remain closely involved to review details, respond to site queries, administer the contract (builder’s claims & necessary paperwork). Supporting both client and builder so that the design intent is carried through the build. MLA act as your representative on site, to ensure all the construction decisions are in your best interest – throughout construction, until you have moved in & defects are rectified by the builder.
Does MLA work on renovations as well as new homes
Yes. MLA design new homes, alterations and additions and bring the same level of care to projects of all scales.
Can we enagage MLA for different stages
The best outcome is achieved when clients engage us from design concept and through to construction completion. However, we can tailor our services to offer flexibility to our clients.
Do you take on projects outside Byron Bay
Yes. MLA work throughout the Byron Bay region from their Northern Rivers studio, and also practise from a remote studio on the Sydney Northern Beaches. The practice also takes on select projects across Australia, bringing a consistent design approach to coastal, rural and city environments.
How do we begin the process
A conversation is the best starting point, easy and obligation free. MLA will guide you, discuss your project, site, goals and preferred approach and then outline the next steps.
Start Your Byron Bay Project
Whether you are planning a new coastal home or hinterland project, MLA would be pleased to speak with you.
Their approach is personal, collaborative and grounded in decades of architectural experience.
