Practice Philosophy

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 practice with over 30 years experience in the design and development of environmentally, socially and financially sustainable buildings. Based in Melbourne and on the Victorian Surf Coast, our work is spread across Australia with a primary focus in the inner and middle ring suburbs of Melbourne, the Surf Coast and the North Eastern 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.

We acknowledge the Wurundjeri and Wadawurrung peoples, who are the Traditional Owners of the lands on which our offices are located. We also acknowledge the Traditional Owners of lands across Australia in which we work and play. We pay our respects to their Elders past, present and emerging.

People

Ric Zen

Founding Director

Before I knew the meaning of the word, I was drawn to architecture. In my mind, architecture is as diverse, exciting and magical as the natural world.

My formal education largely excluded my passion, environmentally sensitive architecture. It led me to forge my own path, eventually forming Zen Architects as well as undertaking various teaching positions at universities.

Born into an Italian migrant family of continental bakers, my upbringing was centred around the values of family and self-sufficiency. I thrived in the vibrance of the culture and the love of making things together while learning new skills along the way. I have been pursuing architecture that delves into these fundamentals of life ever since.

The type of architecture I love is intuitive, diverse and inclusive. It respects people and place while also elevating the cultural experience. Its architecture that makes a difference while taking your breath away.

I am grateful for the opportunity to practice architecture, as every project brings the opportunity to design a better future for our clients.

Outside of Zen, my greatest passion is my family, although surfing comes a close second. Living and working on the Surf Coast, I draw on experiences and joy gained through surfing to influence our design. I wear the biggest smile out on the waves. It’s a minor miracle, like walking on water.

I hope to see you out there.

Luke Rhodes

Director

Inspired by my childhood on a rural property in North East Victoria, the values of sustainable living and family are a continual presence in my work.

My studies were undertaken at the University of Canberra where I completed my Masters of Architecture in 2010. Following this, I was actively involved in the design and construction of large scale, high end commercial and multi-residential developments in the Canberra region.

The desire to work on more refined projects that focused on the end user drew me to Melbourne where I joined Zen Architects.

My interest in the myriad of possibilities of light and volume, and its interaction with local, natural and tactile materials, drive my passion for designing environments in which families can thrive.

Outside of my work at Zen, sustainability, architecture and design are reflected in my daily life. My family and two dogs live in an architecturally designed, all-electric, 1970’s passive solar townhouse in Melbourne’s inner city.

Although fully invested in the inner-city life now, the country remains in my heart. Whether it is camping, fishing, sport, travel or photography, the outdoors is where I feel most at home.

Meagan Oglesby

I wish to create architecture that has a positive impact on the surrounding environment as well as the people who engage with it. To be able create spaces that people can enjoy and want to spend time in; that can enhance their day in subtle and tangible ways. To be sustainable architecture needs to be both environmentally and socially aware so that when we build, the outcomes will benefit the current users but also generations to come.

As a person whose had experience across several models of residential architecture, I feel that the process of architecture should be about effective communication with all involved not only for the clients; but councils and builders to achieve the best outcomes.

With a degree in both industrial design and architecture, I am interested in how we interact with design and the built form, both with light and space but also the tactile and the materiality of spaces. How it makes us feel.

Outside the office at Zen, other than hanging out with family, I love to be outside exploring the natural architecture, walking, rock pooling, running, and playing hockey. Or if inside reading, cooking, painting or just redesigning everybody’s spaces.

Katerina Galanakis

For as long as I can remember, I’ve always had a hunger for exploring my artistic and creative nature. This is ultimately what led me to architecture.

I completed my Masters in Architecture at MONASH University in 2017, at this time I was already working within the architectural realm focusing on multi-residential projects, primarily built within the Melbourne inner suburbs. This experience helped me understand how to maximise usage within smaller spaces, with the intention to create the best possible outcome for the end user. From here I made the jump to urban design within the public sector. I was challenged to design purposeful moments within the built environment, spaces that could be used in many different ways by all members of the public. Zen Architects was the perfect fit for me because it allowed me to focus my skills to create architecture that not only met the requirements of the end user but also worked in sync with the surrounding environment.

In design, my goal has always been to create spaces that radiate positive experiences as well as spaces that leave a lasting impression on the user and all those who interact with it. I am passionate about less wasteful design processes and productions; I want to celebrate elements of the building that may be considered untraditional whilst focusing on sustainable architecture. Architecture that aims to work harmoniously with the environment and most importantly reflect the end user.

When I’m away from my desk, I love to keep social. Spending time with my family and friends is a priority, especially when it involves sharing a delicious home cooked meal.