Your Questions Answered
Library of Thoughts
Featured Articles
Our Favourite Architecture Podcasts
Because we’re archi-nerds, some of our followers are fellow archi-nerds in the industry, and some of our clients nerd out with us about architecture too. The focusses of these podcasts are business, design, technology, but most of all - architecture and design.
Timber vs Steel Studwork in Residential Construction
The selection of building materials in residential construction plays a crucial role in determining the overall sustainability and performance of a building. Timber and steel are commonly used materials for studwork systems. This article aims to compare the environmental impact, energy efficiency, acoustic performance, and ease of construction of timber and steel studwork in residential construction, considering their life cycle assessments and performance characteristics.
Architect or Building Designer: Understanding the Professional Service Differences for Your Forever Home
When deciding between an architect and a building designer for your building or renovation project, there are several factors to consider. Ultimately, clients should match their values and priorities to the services provided by architects or building designers.
Small Second Dwellings and Backyard Buildings in Victoria
Victorian small second dwellings, studios and sheds follow different approval pathways. Understand the key checks before choosing a backyard building.
The Value of Architecture: Evidence and Project Context
Architecture is more than just designing and building structures. It brings value to clients in various ways that go beyond aesthetics. From capital gains to operational savings and improved physical and mental health outcomes, hiring an architect can be a wise investment.
Passive Design, Passive House and Carbon-Neutral Homes
Understand the difference between passive design, certified Passive House and carbon-neutral claims, and how each can shape a Melbourne home.
Designing for Learning: Learning and Cognitive Styles
In the age of digital learning, it is important to understand how the cognitive styles of thinking of students impact the architecture and interior design of learning spaces. Visual, spatial, and verbal learning styles are three distinct cognitive styles that have a significant effect on the way a student learns and interacts with their environment.
Designing for Learning: Defining the Pedagogical Vision
Pedagogy, or the method and practice of teaching, is a vital component of any educational institution. A school's pedagogical vision refers to the overarching philosophy and approach to teaching and learning that guides its educational practices.
From the Archives: A Manifesto
The following is a written copy of an architectural manifesto written by Audrey Whisker when she was a master’s student at Melbourne University. This was a very tactile and visual book which has been transcribed here as an interesting look back at the archives to understand the seeds of where we came from as a firm.
Square Metres, Squares and Square Feet
A practical guide to square metres, building squares and square feet, including accurate conversions and why efficient planning matters more than floor area alone.
Choosing Flooring for a Renovation or New Home
A practical guide to choosing timber, tile, polished concrete and carpet for a renovation or new home, including durability, maintenance, comfort, acoustics and everyday use.
Planning Better School Buildings
A practical guide to planning school buildings around pedagogy, operations, student needs, consultation, safety, sustainability and long-term campus priorities.
Designing for Learning: School Campus Planning
School campus masterplanning requires careful consideration of educational goals, site constraints, and community needs. It is important to prioritize accessibility, consider different groups, incorporate technology, and foster a sense of community. Safety and Dunbar's number should be taken into account when designing the campus, while green infrastructure, energy efficiency, materials, and transportation can help create a sustainable campus.
Seed House in Houzz
A bathroom from our Seed House project was selected to accompany this Houzz article on reducing renovation stress.
The Power of Storytelling in Architecture: How Narrative Can Create Meaningful Spaces
“Regeneration - new life made possible through the destructive power of fire - inspired this design. It’s relevant to this site on several levels.”
— Audrey Whisker, Principal Architect
How Big Is Big Enough?
How to decide how much space your home really needs by testing daily routines, future changes, flexibility, budget and the value delivered by every square metre.
Designing for Accessibility and Aging in Place
We should all be so lucky to age in a society that allows us to age gracefully.
Designing for inclusion is one way we hope to leave the world better.
Designing Healthy Spaces: Creating an Environment for Wellbeing
Architecture has a significant impact on health and well-being. Poorly designed buildings can lead to poor air quality, causing respiratory problems such as asthma and allergies. Good architecture can promote social interaction and community, as well as encourage biophilic design which can improve mental health. Passive House is a building standard that can reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions, as well as improve indoor air quality and encourage active transportation. All of these factors can have significant health benefits for building occupants.
Interview with “My First Architecture Job”
At Whisker Architecture we’re passionate about continuing to share and expand our knowledge. When Sarah Lebner from “My First Architecture Job” invited our principal and founder, Audrey Whisker, to do an interview it was an easy decision.
Pro Tip: Inspiration
“Audrey, I just had this great idea! I was talking to my friend’s girlfriend who…”
— Beloved Client
Download A Free Guide
Learn more with our free downloadable guides, designed to be printed or viewed on your device.
At Whisker Architecture, we craft custom homes that are as unique as you. Guided by empathy and sustainability, we design energy-efficient forever homes that reflect your values and lifestyle.
Who We Are
Led by Audrey Whisker, our team specialises in creating bespoke, timeless designs that support your aspirations and make a positive impact.
Our Sustainability Values
We integrate energy-efficient layouts, passive solar design, and sustainable materials to create homes that balance luxury and environmental responsibility.
Our Process
Our client-focused approach begins with our Home Masterplan Report, offering:
Tailored layout options
Council reviews
Cost and timeline estimates
This ensures clarity and confidence from day one. From design to completion, we’re with you every step of the way.
What Our Clients Say
“Our house is beautiful but also comfortable and functional. Audrey and Winnie took the time to understand our vision and needs as a family and were responsive, friendly and easy to communicate with. They were also happy to liaise in the design and tender stage with our chosen builder which made the build process more efficient. Thank you, Whisker Architecture!” - Micaela & Benjamin
Start Your Forever Home Journey
Discover how Whisker Architecture can bring your dream home to life. Download our capability brochure today and begin your journey to a truly unique forever home.
Discover how to design, build, or renovate your home for unmatched energy efficiency, lower energy bills, and exceptional thermal comfort. Our Free Design Guide to 7 Star Homes is the ultimate resource for homeowners and renovators in Australia who want to create sustainable living spaces without compromising on style or functionality.
In Victoria, the NCC 2022 energy-efficiency changes commenced on 1 May 2024, introducing a 7-star thermal-performance requirement through the NatHERS pathway and a separate Whole of Home energy-use requirement for relevant new homes. Requirements, compliance pathways and commencement dates vary between states and territories. This guide offers practical design principles; confirm the applicable NCC edition, Victorian variations and transitional arrangements with your building surveyor and energy assessor before relying on it for a project. This easy-to-follow guide empowers you with practical advice and expert insights on achieving a 7-star NatHERS energy rating, including tips for:
Energy-efficient home design: Learn how to incorporate passive solar principles and smart layout strategies for year-round comfort.
Reducing energy bills: Explore sustainable solutions that cut energy consumption while keeping your home cosy and cost-effective.
Thermal comfort: Discover the secrets to maintaining optimal indoor temperatures, even in Australia's diverse climates.
Renovating for sustainability: Find actionable steps for retrofitting existing homes with modern, eco-friendly upgrades.
Designed for Victorian homeowners, renovators, and builders, this downloadable PDF guide addresses the key elements of achieving energy-efficient homes, from insulation and draught sealing to renewable energy integration. It’s perfect for families, professionals, and anyone who values long-term sustainability.
Why Download This Guide?
Save money: Understand how energy-efficient designs lower ongoing energy costs.
Live sustainably: Reduce your carbon footprint with environmentally conscious home solutions.
Plan smarter: Get step-by-step advice to confidently start your 7-star home project.
Designed for Australians: Tailored for homes in Victoria and beyond, this guide aligns with local climate considerations and building standards.
This download is the July 2024 edition. Its general design advice should be read alongside current requirements; it is not a substitute for a project-specific energy assessment or compliance advice.
Download your free guide today and start designing a home that’s better for the planet, your wallet, and your family.
Redefine education spaces with Whisker Architecture. Our Learning Environments Capability Statement is a comprehensive document that highlights our expertise in designing innovative, sustainable, and inclusive learning spaces for Victorian schools.
We combine functionality with creativity to deliver high-impact, low-maintenance solutions tailored to each institution's unique needs. From STEM facilities to multi-purpose learning hubs, our designs inspire both educators and students while prioritising long-term value and environmental sustainability.
Highlights of Our Capability Statement:
Purpose-driven designs: Fit-for-purpose spaces that support diverse learning styles and activities.
Sustainability focus: Environmentally conscious solutions, including energy-efficient and low-maintenance designs.
Inclusive environments: Spaces that foster equity, accessibility, and collaboration for all users.
Proven expertise: Extensive experience across primary, secondary, and tertiary education projects for government, Catholic, and private clients.
Transform your vision for learning into a reality with architecture that empowers the next generation.
Download our Learning Environments Capability Statement today and explore how we create spaces where education thrives.


We should all be so lucky to age in a society that allows us to age gracefully.
Designing for inclusion is one way we hope to leave the world better.