Meet Our NSW Architects


Experienced, approachable and we come to you!

We want to help you get most out of your project now, to maximise your investment and return, and to make it delightful.

Louise O’Brien

Service Area: Sydney South & East (NSW)

Louise is a registered architect and interior designer with 25 years of global experience. She is the founder of Apsara Collective in Surrey Hills, teaches environmental design, and brings a practical and accessible approach to design. With a background in esteemed international firms like Gensler, B+H, and Woods Bagot, Louise has extensive expertise.

In addition to architectural practice, Louise leads the Architecture Club at the Sydney Opera House and is the author of "100 Things to Know about Architecture", showcasing her commitment to sharing knowledge about the built environment.

Louise's designs prioritise functionality and delight, creating spaces that not only look amazing but also serve the practical needs of her clients. She is dedicated to making good design accessible, ensuring that her clients can enjoy well-crafted spaces without breaking the bank. As a designer and guide, Louise aims to bring the benefits of thoughtful design to a broader audience.

Jennifer Crawford

Service Area: Sydney North & West (NSW)

Jennifer is the innovative architect behind Our New Home Coach. She really knows design and building. With a decade of experience in premier construction and leading home builders, Jennifer knows how to make your new or renovated home both efficient and comfortable.

Many clients are concerned about cost overruns. Through targeted conversations Jennifer can quickly bring a site specific and rational analysis to financial and emotional risks in the design process. Jennifer offers practical and personal design options, instilling confidence for a smoother journey toward your dream home.

Having worked closely with homebuyers and developers, Jennifer noticed the need for additional guidance in realizing the ideal home. As a mother of two, she empathizes with the challenges of optimizing a small space for a changing family. Jennifer's personable approach ensures a supportive experience on your path to a well-designed and functional home.

David Kidston

Service Area: Lake Macquarie & Central Coast (NSW)

David's passion lies in collaborating with residential clients, guiding them on the courageous journey of creating homes that truly reflect their needs and aspirations. His expertise in the lower Hunter region reveals the unique blend of relaxation and adventure loved by locals, inspired by the stunning surroundings—countryside, lakeside, or beachfront. His local insight is invaluable in helping clients realise the potential of their homes in this beautiful area.

David has focused zealously on residential design for the past 12 years. Established in 2012 in Newcastle, HACK Architecture is guided by core values of People, Place, and Environment, ensuring designs are not only beautiful light-filled and functional spaces, but also deeply respectful of their context and sustainable in their planning and construction.

Beyond architecture, David is an avid sports enthusiast, from watching his kids play soccer to exploring scenic trails on a mountain bike. Actively involved with Collective Heart, a local community-focused organization, David seamlessly integrates personal enrichment with a professional commitment to creating architecture in harmony with both people and place.

Jo Bastian

Service Area : Newcastle, Port Stephens, Maitland & Cessnock (NSW)

Jo believes architecture should be accessible for all, and not just the elite which is why she is excited to be an Architect GP. She created Bastian Architecture in order to provide services which consider in equal measure the architectural design, the client’s budget and the desire to be creative and innovative with each project.

Jo's experience is highly experienced in detailed adaptive reuse of residential and public buildings which reflects her passion for well considered, site specific architecture. Jo is a good listener and straight talker. She will help you understand how your project might progress and how to align your brief with your budget.

In 2023, Olive Tree House by Bastian Architecture, was recognised in the Australian Institute of Architect’s award for New Residential Houses. At the highest level, this shows that building on a budget can be achieved with clever use of space and flexible planning.

Outside of architecture Jo is raising a very busy toddler, heading to the beach or travelling the world with her husband.