Modern Residential Architecture

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The concept of ‘modern residential architecture’, or ‘modern architecture’ was ironically coined nearly 100 years ago.

Modern architecture comes from the late 19th century and was based on the technological innovations of the previous revolution. It seems fitting then to reference today’s modern architecture as being inspired by the Fourth Industrial Revolution or 4IR, which has been defined by the significant technological innovation and transformation that has had – and will continue to have – on modern society.

It is disruptive.
It is innovative.
It is functional.
It can be expensive (if done correctly).

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A focus on modern residential architecture

And that’s exactly how we approach modern residential architecture at Playoust Churcher.

As specialist North Shore architects, we focus on function whilst creating gorgeous, innovative spaces for the Northern Beaches and North Shore areas in Sydney that lead the charge in beautiful and revolutionary modern residential design.

Modern residential architectural approach

At Playoust Churcher, the way we approach our design process is testament to how our business has harnessed 4IR and in the way our company operates. Using disruptive technology to approach each project has allowed us to design for local and international clients and appeal to nuclear and extended family scenarios. Our projects remain functional, focus on the flow of the home and deliver world class design.

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The process

Unpacking the vision for each client helps us understand what each client has envisaged for their modern residential home.

Once the regulatory and compliance requirements have been determined and initial sketches are presented to the client, we use 3D technology to help bring the vision to life, including building materials, size of the wardrobes, even fittings and fixtures. This process allows the client to virtually walk through their future home.

Once we have completed the next step, which involves council compliance, our specialist team undertakes a detailed interior planning and design process that shines the spotlight on modern residential architecture best practices inside the home.

This involves making beautiful spaces functional and leveraging hidden technologies throughout the home to ensure your home is future-proof and considerate of the environment – a key characteristic of modern residential architecture and design.

Walking through the contract tender process allows us to ensure that our vision to bring modern residential architecture to life is shared with the team of builders commissioned to physically build the home. We work closely with the construction team to make sure every element of the design management process is protected.

Design Challenges in Modern Architecture

Many clients think modern “clean line” spaces would be easier to build and therefore cheaper than, say more detailed spaces. This opinion is one myth that needs to be debunked.

Although the spaces are less cluttered and detailed, they expose the materials and junctions. In traditional construction it is not critical that the wall and floor are perfectly finished at a junction as a covering such as a skirting board or cornice is placed over the joint to hide any imperfections.

There is often no covering in modern architecture and the wall and floor junctions, so the finish needs to be perfect. This decision involves extra time and skill and therefore cost.

When you take the modern detailing and apply it across the whole project for consistency, it’s easy to see why these projects can become quite costly. Look out for a future blog where we will look at avoiding mistakes when designing modern spaces.

Client commitment

Our journey doesn’t stop once the build does. We commit to our clients for the long haul and make sure that robust home maintenance considerations are developed to suit each client’s lifestyle needs.

To speak to us about your future home that harnesses modern residential architecture and best in class design, contact us.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is having a building plan so important?

A building plan connects every phase of your project—from early concept through to completion. It’s especially crucial in an environment of rising building costs and labour shortages, helping you stay on budget, on schedule, and future-proof your home.

Learn more

What does "The Need" phase involve?

It starts with understanding your vision, purpose, timeline, and budget—paired with insights into local property trends. This phase ensures both client and architect have aligned expectations and a clear strategic starting point.

Explore the steps

What insights are vital during the planning process?

Key insights include current material costs (noting year-on-year increases, sometimes doubling), local labour shortages, environmental considerations, council rules, and the demands of the DA process

Dive deeper

What happens in "The Plan" stage?

This phase brings clarity through detailed scheduling and budgeting, includes inflation and cost buffers, and involves council liaison and coordination with contractors—minimising costly revisions down the line.

Learn how

How does this planning method reduce risk?

By embedding clarity, realistic budgets, project flow, and early-stage strategic alignment, this method significantly reduces the likelihood of time delays, unexpected expenses, or scope creep—ensuring long-term project success.

Read the breakdown

Key Takeaways

Defining Modern Through the 4IR Lens

The firm positions “modern residential architecture” within the framework of the Fourth Industrial Revolution—highlighting design that is disruptive, innovative, functional, and (when executed with high fidelity) inherently premium.

Architecting with Technology and Functionality

They use 4IR-inspired tools—from virtual 3D walkthroughs to detailed material, fitting, and fixture visualisation—to craft homes that are both beautiful and purposeful, tailored for diverse family contexts.

Precision in Execution Elevates Cost

Contrary to expectations, modern “clean line” architecture demands heightened craftsmanship—especially in exposed junctions like wall-floor interfaces—where perfect finish is essential, warranting greater time and investment.

Long-Term Client Commitment Beyond Construction

Playoust Churcher maintains deep engagement beyond handover, embedding maintenance planning customized for client lifestyles—ensuring modern design endures in both form and function.

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.