Matthew Crawford architects is a boutique, design-oriented architecture practice based in North Fremantle, Western Australia.
From educational, retail, hospitality, office fit outs and heritage-listed buildings through to renovations and high end residential projects, we bring a depth of experience across a range of projects.
At MCA, we engage a collaborative and client-focussed process to undertake every project. Encouraging open communication with our clients allows for a fluid exchange of ideas and an informed and rigorous design approach. Underlying all of our work is a design ethos of innovation, sustainability and design excellence. This enables the practice to create thoughtfully designed and flexible spaces.
MCA currently comprises a vibrant team of six. We provide a complete architectural service, from concept design through to contract administration and are happy to provide an obligation free consultation to discuss your next project.
MCA acknowledges the Whadjuk people of the Noongar nation as Traditional Owners of the land on which we live and work.
We acknowledge and respect their enduring culture, their contribution to the life of this city, and Elders past, present and emerging.
OUR TEAM
Matthew Crawford
Director
Registered Architect ARBWA Reg 1762 Architect’s Registration Board of WA
University of Western Australia - Bachelor of Architecture with First Class Honours
Appointed member of the City of Fremantle DAC (Design Advisory Committee)
Matthew is a qualified architect with over thirty years experience in the industry with an active involvement in all areas of the profession including practice, ongoing research and teaching.
Matthew has been responsible for projects in three countries, including Australia, Great Britain, and the Netherlands.His direct project experience includes a very broad range of typologies including sensitive heritage adaptive re-use, hospitality, hotels, commercial offices, education and residential.
Over the past 15 years, in conjunction with running the practice, Matthew has also been involved in architectural education running design studios at both UWA and Curtin within their respective Schools of Architecture.
Registered Architect
Curtin University - Master of Architecture
Curtin University - Bachelor of Applied Science (Architectural Science)
Jake Gethin
With over 10 years experience in the construction industry, Jake excels in architectural design, crafting spaces that blend purpose and innovation. His expertise spans from intimate residential homes to functional childcare facilities and inviting hospitality venues.
Outside of MCA, Jake pursues personal ventures focused on private residential interiors, renovations, and bespoke furniture, which he hand- builds himself. He continues to give back to the architectural landscape by lecturing at the University of WA.
Jake is committed to delivering creative yet practical solutions that surpass client expectations. His versatile portfolio underscores his ability to shape enduring environments that inspire.
Alice Watts
Registered Architect
University of Notre Dame - Master of Architecture
University of Western Australia - Bachelor of Design (Architecture and Integrated Design)
As a registered architect at Matthew Crawford Architects, Alice has had the opportunity to work on a diverse range of projects including small residential developments, heritage restorations, childcare facilities, and hotels.
This variety has allowed Alice to develop a versatile skill set and a comprehensive understanding of different architectural demands and client needs.
Alice completed her Master of Architecture at the University of Notre Dame in the West End of Fremantle. During her studies, she developed a profound appreciation for heritage architecture. This passion has given Alice a deep understanding of the significance of context in design, which she strives to incorporate into every project.
Architectural Graduate
University of Western Australia - Master of Architecture
University of Western Australia - Bachelor of Design (Architecture and Integrated Design)
Jakob Whyte
Jakob is an Architectural Graduate at Matthew Crawford Architects, having joined the firm in 2023. He has contributed to a diverse range of projects spanning residential, heritage, commercial, and interior design.
His experience across multiple project types has allowed him to develop a versatile skill set and a strong understanding of the technical and creative demands of architecture. Jakob brings a distinctive edge to the team and skills in mechanics.
With a keen eye for detail and a dedication to quality, Jakob approaches every project with a balance of design sensibility and pragmatic problem-solving, ensuring that both client needs and contextual considerations are thoughtfully addressed.
Mel Johnston
North Metropolitan Tafe - Certificate IV in Technical Drafting
Mel lives in the vibrant heart of Fremantle with an intuitive pulse on everything local—from hidden laneway cafés to upcoming community events. This has earnt her the nickname of 'Mrs Fremantle' by Matt.
Highly organised and detail-driven, Mel is the go‑to coordinator for project timelines, documentation, and team logistics. Outside the office, she’s immersed in Fremantle’s cultural scene, keeps a sharp eye on local design trends, and supports community‑driven projects. Mel’s regional expertise, organisational excellence, and deep local connections make her integral to both our studio and the Fremantle community.
Architectural Graduate
University of Western Australia - Bachelor of Environmental Design (Architecture A + B)
Sasha Flint
Sasha is an aspiring architect and multidisciplinary designer. At MCA, she contributes to design development, drafting, modelling, and visual presentations . Sasha blends technical knowledge with creativity to deliver projects that are intellectually engaging and visually compelling.
Sasha is in the process of completing her Master of Architecture at the University of Notre Dame in the West End of Fremantle.
She has had the opportunity to work on a diverse range of projects including commercial, heritage and residential developments and restorations, developing skills to positively contribute to the environment.
AWARDS
2025
Winner of the Building Excellence Awards: Education Facility $5 Million to $10 Million
Little Saints Childcare - All Saints’ College
2024
Winner of the AIA WA Architecture Award for Heritage Architecture
Warders Block W2 Hotel
2023
Winner of the State Heritage Council Award for Architecture (Heritage)
Warders Block W2 Hotel
Winner Fremantle Chamber of Commerce Business Awards ‘Champion Stay’
Warders Block W1 Hotel and Emily Taylor
2022
Winner Fremantle Chamber of Commerce Business Awards ‘Peoples’ Choice Experience Fremantle Award’
Warders Block W1 Hotel and Emily Taylor
2021
Winner of the AIA WA Architecture Award for Heritage Architecture
Winner of the AIA WA Architecture Award for Lighting
Winner of the AIA WA Architecture Award for Commercial Architecture
Commendation Eat Drink Awards
Winner Fremantle Chamber of Commerce Business Awards ‘Business of the Year’
Warders Block W1 Hotel and Emily Taylor
2019
Winner of the AIA WA Architecture Award for Education
Skyplay - School Of Early Learning
2018
Commendation for the AIA WA Architecture Award for Small Projects
Boatshed Market Wineloft
2017
Winner of the 2017 Clubs WA Industry Awards for Excellence - Best Club Function Facility, Large Category
Swan Yacht Club Clubhouse Refurbishment
Winner of the AIA WA Architecture Award for Residential - Alterations & Additions
Eagle Bay House
Winner of the HIA WA Housing Awards - Townhouse of the Year and Townhouse Development of the Year, Dual Awards
3 & 3A Riverside Drive, Mosman Park
2016
Winner of the Town of Claremont Civic Design Award - Heritage Conservation
Adam Heath Retail Fitout - Bayview Terrace, Claremont