2023 Architect Trend Forecast

Playoust Churcher - Architect trend forecast

As the new year gets back into full swing, we look at the 2023 architect trend forecast and the impact we anticipate on North Shore & Northern Beaches dream home design and development.

As architects, we must stay abreast of industry trends and keep our ears to the ground for how the market performs.

Here are some key observations we have identified and will watch as 2023 evolves.

Architect trends on the North Shore and Northern Beaches

Our Managing Director, Brett Churcher, says, “We at Playoust Churcher are still seeing strong levels of interest from North Shore clients wanting to renovate or construct new homes.”

Playoust Churcher - Architect trends on the North Shore

He suspects this may be due to the recent house price corrections that saw a record-breaking decline of 8.4% from May 2022 until January 2023, more homes available on the market and historically low-interest rates (although not as low as they have been).

Brett also reports that building costs are stabilising post the COVID hangover, indicating confidence in materials supply.

Multigenerational home and land subdivisions have also maintained their popularity in architectural trends for the North Shore and Northern Beaches.

International architect trends to look out for

“We see significantly more activity in architectural 3D printing and suspect these numbers will consistently grow throughout the year,” says Brett.

The Advanced Manufacturing Research Facility (AMRF) – the first of its kind for Australia – plans to bring universities, their science faculties and the CSIRO together to access the latest technologies and research in advanced electronics and manufacturing, according to the NSW Government website.

The first of the two buildings is opening this year, which will support a range of applications and demonstrate enhanced productivity and quality in manufacturing systems.

3D printing experts Luyten predict that around a third of housing in the Australian outback and remote areas could be built using 3D technology by 2030.

Playoust Churcher - Sustainability in architecture

A continued focus on sustainability in architecture

The anticipated growth in 3D printing across the architecture and building sectors are testament to the continued focus on sustainability.

Homes constructed of 3D-printed walls and facades are already becoming incredibly popular, and sustainability strategies, especially in modern residential architecture, are woven into the architectural design process long before construction.

Using natural materials also remains high on the trend list, which we support 100% as Australia continues to pursue net zero emissions by 2050.

Looking for an architect that understands and defines architectural trends?

Then look no further and contact our team of architectural experts today.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key local renovation trends for 2023?

Playoust Churcher reports strong interest in both renovations and new builds, driven by falling house prices (down 8.4% between May 2022 and January 2023), increased listings, and stabilising material costs following the COVID era.

Read the full forecast

Why the rising demand for multigenerational homes and land subdivisions?

These trends reflect evolving family and lifestyle needs—ranging from multigenerational living to capitalising on subdividing larger land parcels—both remain in high demand in the region.

Learn more

What international technology trend caught their attention?

The firm notes growing activity in architectural 3D printing. Growth is expected to continue, supported by innovations emerging from Australia’s new Advanced Manufacturing Research Facility (AMRF).

Explore the trend

Key Takeaways

Market Confidence Fuels Renovations

Despite an 8.4% drop in house prices from May 2022 to January 2023, increased property availability and historically low interest rates have driven strong homeowner interest in renovations and new builds across the North Shore and Northern Beaches.

Stabilised Building Costs Renew Feasibility

As post-pandemic supply pressures ease, material availability has improved and building costs are stabilising—restoring confidence in project feasibility and delivery

Multigenerational Homes and Subdivisions Remain Trending

The demand for multigenerational living setups and land subdivision projects continues to be a prominent trend, reflecting evolving family dynamics and property-use preferences.

Tech-Driven Sustainability on the Horizon

Architectural 3D printing is gaining traction—powered by research hubs like the Advanced Manufacturing Research Facility—with the potential to shape up to one-third of housing in remote Australian areas by 2030. This reflects a broader push toward sustainable, innovative building methods using natural materials.

Meet the Author

Brett Churcher

Managing Director & Nominated Architect 
NSW Architect Registration No. 5924

With over 30 years of architectural experience, Brett Churcher leads Playoust Churcher Architects with a rare combination of design expertise and commercial insight. As a registered architect and Managing Director, Brett has played a pivotal role in delivering high-end single residential homes and boutique medium-density developments across Sydney’s North Shore and beyond.

Brett’s unique strength lies in his deep understanding of both architectural design and the Sydney property market. His valuation background enables him to align creative vision with practical feasibility, ensuring each project achieves both aesthetic excellence and financial viability.

At Playoust Churcher, Brett drives the studio’s growth, strategy, and leadership, while remaining closely connected to what matters most: the client. His ability to see the bigger picture from a client’s perspective and to guide projects seamlessly through the design process is at the heart of his role and reputation.