kym muir Architects
Established in 2005 by Kym Muir, Kym Muir Architects is a boutique architecture and interiors studio based in Claremont and Dunsborough, Western Australia.
Collaborating with Kym is architect and interior designer - Victoria Cole. Kym and Victoria met while studying architecture at Curtin University and with complementary design skills and experience, they bring to each project their combined expertise in residential design, detailing and interiors. Delivering well resolved, practical, functional and beautiful design solutions that feel like home.
ABOUT kYM (director)
With three children, a gorgeous cocker spaniel called Soot and a husband who wants a bigger shed, I understand that homes need to be practical, flexible and robust. I appreciate that small details matter – beach sand, muddy footy shoes, toys and messy school bags are part of family life and all need to be considered and thoughtfully accommodated.
Designs that have a great layout, kitchen and indoor/ outdoor spaces where you can relax with a coffee to enjoy the winter sunshine, or sit on a deck with a glass of wine, natural materials which are warm and inviting - are all key to making your new house or renovation feel like home.
Little kids grow up to become teenagers with lots of friends, so it is not just about designing for now but thinking about how your home might work in the future as well. This particularly important if you are planning a family holiday home which often becomes inter-generational or needs to be flexible to accommodate guests.
Equally ageing in place is important if you are looking to retire or downsize.
One of the first homes I designed was in old Dunsborough 25 year ago. It started my love for designing homes in the beautiful South West of WA. Architecture which has a sense of place and belonging to the landscape. Homes that can be enjoyed as a retreat and where friends and families can come together.
What I find very special about designing family and holiday homes is getting to know the families we work with and walking together through their new homes and renovations as the build progress, and they get to experience the joy of seeing their ideas come together and their vision realised.
Away from work I love spending time with my family and friends, walking our dog at the river, and exploring the beaches, wineries and restaurants of our beautiful South West.
With a career spanning over 25 years designing custom homes, renovations, holiday retreats, inner city apartments and urban renewal projects, I am passionate about creating sustainable and well-designed residential built environments that enhance our quality of life, well-being and sense of place.
Well considered design fosters our connection to nature, our environment, and our local community.
Director - KYM MUIR
Professional Awards
A.R.L Wright Memorial Prize (RAIA WA Chapter) (1990) Bachelor of Applied Science in Architecture - Curtin University.
John Coleman Award, awarded by the Architects Board of West Australia (2000) - for West Australia’s Architectural Practice Examinations .
Over a career of 25 years Kym has worked on many projects which have received a range of Industry Awards, including Australian Institute of Architecture Commendations & Award, Master Builder Awards, HIA Awards, UDIA Awards and Local Council Building Design Awards.
Background
Kym is a registered architect with a Bachelor of Architecture (Hons). Professional roles include Chapter Councilor for the WA Chapter of the Australian Institute of Architects and a past Board Examiner for the Architects Board of West Australia.
Prior to establishing her residential architectural & interiors practice in 2005, Kym was a Principal with one of Perth’s leading commercial multi-disciplinary architectural practices and led the commercial residential, heritage and urban design business group for the practice. Throughout this time she gained experience on a diverse range of projects from bespoke homes, to inner city apartments, heritage and urban renewal projects. Selected projects include Subi Centro and East Perth Redevelopment, Oxford Lane Drill Hall Adaptive re-use and new apartments - Leederville, the Chinese Consular Residence in East Perth and Heritage architect for the North Extension to Parliament House in WA.
Early in her career she also had the opportunity to take on the role of Interiors & Design Manager for a luxury Service Apartment Operator and Property Developer in Thailand. It is here that Kym developed her appreciation for natural materials, craftsmanship and the value of designing inviting, relaxing interiors as a retreat for everyday life.
Kym brings her experience and understanding on complex site planning, urban design, council requirements, heritage, concept, interiors & detailed design, project co-ordination and people skills to each and every one of her custom residential projects.
Qualifications and Professional Practice
Bachelor of Architecture (HONS) Curtin University
Registered Architect – 1851 Architects Board of Western Australia
A+ Member, Australian Institute of Architects
ACA Member, Association of Consulting Architects
Past Board Examiner – for the Architects Board of Western Australia, 2006-2011
Member, Gender Equity Taskforce, WA Chapter, Australian Institute of Architects 2021 (RAIA) and Co-Chair, Gender Equity Taskforce, WA Chapter Australian Institute of Architects 2022, 2023, 2024 (RAIA)
Councillor – WA Chapter Council 2023, 2024 (RAIA)
WA Representative – National Committee of Gender Equity 2023 (RAIA)
Member, Honours Committee, 2023, 2024 RAIA