BENT Architecture

BENT Architecture was founded in 2003 by Paul and Merran Porjazoski in Brunswick, Melbourne. Over two decades, the practice has built a solid reputation in residential design, sustainable architecture, and landscape integration.

The firm's work spans residential, commercial, educational, and community projects, offering comprehensive services from feasibility studies and master planning to construction management. The design team includes experienced architects like Michael Germano and Lana Hili, who have accumulated substantial practical experience across different project types and scales.

BENT Architecture's design philosophy rests on three pillars: people, environment, and delight. They believe architecture must first serve its users, creating healthy and comfortable living spaces; second, respect the environment using passive design principles to reduce energy consumption; and finally, good architecture should bring surprise and joy rather than being dull and boring.

This philosophy is fully embodied in their projects. From single-family homes to social housing, from office spaces to rooftop gardens, each project seeks balance between functional requirements, environmental responsibility, and design innovation. The practice believes that through deep understanding of site and thorough communication with clients, they can create architecture that is both practical and expressive.

BENT Architecture's work has received wide recognition. In 2023, Mt Eliza House won the Australian Design Awards Gold; in 2018, Phoenix Rooftop won the Sustainability Award; in 2017, Business and Arts Basement won the London Design Awards Gold. Beyond this, the practice has won two open design competitions, including "Growing Up" Green Roof and "Living Places Suburban Revival" public housing projects.

Worth mentioning is that the name BENT comes from Merran's grandfather, George "Buzzer" Bent. He was a champion cyclist selected for the Australian Olympic team and still holds Brunswick cycling records. This family name later became the practice's vehicle for exploring architectural possibilities, representing an attitude of questioning convention and pursuing the unique.