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Shaping Environments: Gold Coast Architectural Design

Since 2010, Burleigh Beach Designs has specialised in crafting site-responsive architectural solutions across the Gold Coast, Queensland, and Northern New South Wales. Guided by a deep respect for each project's locale, we blend progressive design thinking with Queensland's subtropical climate and coastal influences—producing buildings that are both enduring and contextually grounded.

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Architectural design by Burleigh Beach Designs showcasing Queensland subtropical coastal architecture on the Gold Coast

AIA A+ Member Practice

ACA Member Practice

Approved Supplier: QLD Dept. of Education (SUEA Panel 2025)

Quality Architecture for Queensland Living

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Our Architectural Philosophy

Our approach is defined by four key principles that guide every project we undertake, ensuring architectural outcomes that are contextually responsive, enduring, sustainable, and client-focused.

Regional Context-Responsive

We design specifically for the Gold Coast's subtropical context, connecting indoor and outdoor living.

We design buildings that belong to their place, connecting indoor and outdoor living in ways that embrace the Gold Coast lifestyle. Our designs are intrinsically tied to their coastal landscapes and unique environmental conditions.

Enduring & Timeless Design

We create architecture that transcends trends, focusing on quality and longevity.

Rather than following fleeting design trends, we prioritize enduring architectural principles, quality materials, and craftsmanship that ages gracefully. Our buildings are designed to remain relevant and functional for generations.

Subtropical Sustainability

We integrate passive design strategies specifically suited to South East Queensland's climate.

By employing cross-ventilation, solar orientation, and appropriate shading, we reduce energy use. Our approach combines sustainable materials with biophilic design principles to create healthier, more efficient buildings that connect occupants with nature.

Client-Centered Collaboration

Architecture is a partnership. We work closely with our clients through all project phases.

Our transparent design process provides clients with the confidence that comes from working with experienced Gold Coast architects who understand local regulations, building conditions, and industry networks.

Meet the Principals

Brett McDonald - Principal Architect

Brett McDonald

Leading Burleigh Beach Designs for over 12 years, Brett McDonald integrates deep practical knowledge with extensive architectural qualifications (M.Arch, B.Env.Design, Dip.Building, Dip.Proj.Mgmt). His foundational experience began hands-on in the trades (bricklaying, carpentry, stonemasonry), including contributing to high-end residential projects, providing an invaluable real-world understanding of quality construction from the outset.

This practical grounding is complemented by Brett's experience gained at top-tier firms (Lyons, Hames Sharley, Architectus), where he played an integral role within teams delivering complex, large-scale projects across diverse sectors. His professional expertise includes:

  • Residential & Multi-Residential Design: Specialised experience in creating bespoke residential solutions tailored to Queensland's unique coastal environment, with significant expertise in multi-residential development strategies.
  • Large-Scale Project Experience: Played a key role within architectural teams responsible for the design and delivery of significant institutional developments, including medical research and healthcare facilities such as the Harry Perkins Institute, Fiona Stanley Hospital, the Gorgon Gas Project, and Sunshine Coast University Hospital.
  • Technical & Construction Expertise: Brings hands-on trade background (bricklaying, carpentry, stonemasonry) to ensure architectural vision translates successfully to practical, buildable solutions.
  • Environmental & Site Responsiveness: Specialized approach to site analysis that maximizes environmental advantages while addressing the unique constraints of Gold Coast and Queensland sites.
  • Project Management: Detailed oversight of complex projects from concept through completion, ensuring architectural integrity throughout the construction process.

At Burleigh Beach Designs, Brett channels this comprehensive background into creating spaces that are architecturally compelling, contextually appropriate, and aligned with client aspirations. His integrated approach ensures clients receive expertly managed projects that result in enduring, considered built outcomes.

Simone McDonald - Principal Designer / Project Manager

Simone McDonald

A cornerstone of Burleigh Beach Designs for over 10 years, Simone brings exceptional organisational leadership and client focus to the practice. With a Diploma in Project Management (Dip.Proj.Mgmt) and drawing upon over two decades of experience managing complex operational requirements prior to joining the firm, she ensures the seamless execution of every project.

Simone is instrumental in guiding clients through the architectural process, overseeing critical project management functions that translate design vision into built reality. Her responsibilities encompass:

  • Client Communication & Relationship Management: Acting as a primary point of contact, ensuring clear, consistent, and timely communication, fostering strong partnerships built on trust and transparency.
  • Project Planning & Scheduling: Developing and managing detailed project timelines, coordinating consultant engagement, and ensuring key milestones are met efficiently.
  • Documentation & Contract Administration: Overseeing the flow of essential project documentation, from initial briefs and contracts to approvals and handover materials.
  • Quality Assurance Coordination: Liaising between the design team, clients, and construction teams to ensure project objectives and quality standards are upheld throughout the build.
  • Resource & Budget Oversight: Assisting in the careful management of project resources and tracking financial elements to maintain alignment with client expectations.

Simone's dedication to meticulous project management and outstanding client service ensures a smooth, organised, and responsive experience for every Burleigh Beach Designs client. Her expertise is pivotal in transforming architectural concepts into successfully completed projects that exceed expectations.

Together, Brett and Simone lead Burleigh Beach Designs with a shared dedication to architectural excellence, client satisfaction, and creating positive contributions to the Gold Coast's built environment.

Signature Projects Across Queensland

Discover how we blend innovative design with Queensland's unique landscape. Our diverse portfolio showcases residential and commercial projects that respond to the region's coastal environment, subtropical climate, and distinctive lifestyle.

Our Design Process

We guide clients through a structured yet flexible design journey:

  1. Listen & Discover: Understanding your vision, brief, budget, and site specifics.
  2. Analyse & Conceptualise: Deep site analysis informing initial design concepts and feasibility studies.
  3. Develop & Refine: Collaboratively developing the chosen concept with detailed drawings, models, and material selections.
  4. Document & Approve: Preparing comprehensive documentation for council approvals and construction.
  5. Build & Deliver: Offering support during construction to ensure design integrity and quality execution.

Our collaborative approach ensures you are involved and informed at every stage.

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Ready to start your project? Contact us today to discuss your vision and how we can bring it to life.

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