We believe in architecture that’s smart, sustainable and innovative
At Content Studio, we approach each project with curiosity and openness. We work closely with our clients (local and state government, professionals, families) to understand their needs, before we begin the design process. The studio has successfully delivered schools, libraries, community hubs, and interpretive centres, for clients including Victorian School Building Authority (VSBA), City of Melbourne, and Tourism Victoria. We work across a broad range of project scales, ranging from $100K to $15M. We view budgets as a creative challenge, not a limitation. We also design and reconfigure houses, so they are wonderful places for families to live. Residential projects range from renovations of period houses, townhouse developments, to new builds on the coast and in the country. Founded in 2005, Content Studio is a Fitzroy-based practice led by founder Mat Foley, who brings more than 20 years of experience and innovation to our architectural practice.
VALUES
[ WHAT WE DO ]
Engagement with Country
Content Studio ngarrgunj Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Guljin ngarrgu nugal ba ganbu tartbunerra biik. gahgook-al nanggit-mal nhanboo, yelingwa ba yirrambuyi
Content Studio is committed to engaging with country on all of our projects. As part of our design methodology we work with artist, educator and historian John Patten who belongs to the Yorta Yorta and Bandjalung nations. John undertakes a review of the indigenous heritage of the site and provides the research to initiate a discussion with the client and our consultants. We discuss the brief and explore opportunities for a design response to the cultural heritage. On past projects, these have included artworks, education programs, landscape elements, or the use of first nation language in signage. We recently assisted John with his submission for the Stolen Generation marker on the banks of the Yarra.
Content Studio is in the process of developing its RAP.
Social Sustainability
Content Studio practices social sustainability through its business partnerships and design practices. We have a long track record of supporting local community, not-for-profit and social benefit groups through the design of community, youth, visitor and childcare centres. Design priorities include improving existing facilities to be more inclusive of culture, gender identity, age and ability. Our services often go above and beyond the standard by providing assistance with funding applications and community engagement processes. A few examples of our projects include the Ignite Café which is a social enterprise run by the Jesuit Mission at the Camberwell Library, the Chancez Café in Mill Park Library run by Araluen Centre, and Rising High Records a recording studio promoting music made by local youth at Yarra Community Youth Centre (YCYC).
Content Studio is developing its Sustainability Action Plan.
Environmental Sustainability
Content Studio promotes the sustainable use of resources and their recovery through reuse, refurbishment and recycling. We establish a sustainability action plan early on in the briefing process, defining social and environmental outcomes and a relevant methodology. Content Studio is committed to minimizing the impact of our business operations on the environment. Our three‐part process to ESD includes (1) a series of ‘common sense’ measures focusing on reusing, recyling, and adaptation, (2) the standard inclusion of passive design measures and the consideration of technology‐based solutions, and (3) engaging with community to influence behaviour. As a small practice, we strive to implement sustainable practices and implement our environmental management policies.
Content Studio is developing its Sustainability Action Plan.
Community Engagement
Content Studio believes that successful design begins with collaboration. We recognise the diverse perspectives that the client and stakeholders bring to a project. We tailor our approach to accommodate the commitment, culture and capabilities of the broader team. This approach is fostered within the office where briefs are discussed and design approaches debated. Our clients benefit from having engaged and passionate people delivering their projects.
VALUES
[ WHAT WE DO ]
[ 2024 ] Victorian Premier Design Awards
Finalist, Architectural Design category
[ 2011 ] Yarra Sustainability Awards
Innovation in Sustainable Design Category
Melbourne University ELC Eco Cubby
We have a resource base of six to ten professional staff members all with applied knowledge and expertise. The office is also supported by an administrator to manage finance and IT. Our team includes Registered Architects, Architectural Graduates, and Interior Designers. The staff are supported by contract documenters when required. We have a strong work ethos, a stable practice with a great team atmosphere and a very low staff turnover. Each project is run by the Director, Mat Foley, with the support of a dedicated project team.