About Us
Who We Are
ARG Architects operates as a small sole practice with strong links to other architects, some of whom work from home so they can be a part of their professional community while raising their children.
ARG Architects love to explore space, finishes and structure and are dedicated to eco-logical and eco-nomic design – i.e improving the performance of our homes and reducing the impact of the built environment on our planet where possible. We are particularly skilled in solving the challenges of construction and town planning and embrace new technology and good design practices. ARG Architects are tech savvy and 3d experts, having worked in the field of 3d modelling for over 20 years.
ARG architects are registered with the ARBV (Architects Registration Board of Victoria) and are proudly associated with AGA (Architects Group Australia Pty Ltd) and are supporters of Architeam Pty Ltd.
Director
Karen Tanfield
Karen Tanfield
Founder - Principal - Senior Architect - Tutor
ARG Architects is directed by Senior Architect Karen Tanfield. Karen studied a Bachelor of Architectural Studies at the University of Cape Town in South Africa. On completion of these studies, Karen worked at Stefan Antoni Architects (now part of SAOTA) in Cape Town, South Africa and Elsworth Sykes Architects in London before moving to Melbourne where she completed her Bachelor of Architecture degree at RMIT. During her studies and while simultaneously raising a family, Karen worked in the offices of Guilford Bell and Graham Fisher Architects and later Bassett and Lobaza Architects before starting her own practice in 2000.
Karen is passionate about construction and technology and has practiced the art of building in her own properties. Skills she has gained, some of which she would be happy not to repeat, have included brick and block laying, rendering, plaster boarding, tiling, painting, insulating, waterproofing and plumbing. Karen also built her own 3d printer.
It was this keen interest in building, construction, structure, design, technology, 3d printing and design development, her experience as a mum of a teenager/ 20-year old, as well as great encouragement from good friends and colleges that led to a part-time tutoring position in architectural technology. Karen has since tutored in the Departments of Architecture of most of Melbourne’s leading universities including the University of Melbourne, Deakin, RMIT and Monash. Karen has also lectured at both RMIT and Monash where she continues to tutor in Departments of Architecture and Interior Design on a part time basis.
Worldwide Inspiration
We drawn on inspiration from around the globe
budget / QUALITY
We work with you in the careful management of budget and expectations
experience
We combine personal attention with 20+ years of local experience.
tailored services
We offer a range of services, tailored to your needs