Michelle Dunas and Stephen Clement, architects and co-founders of Sydney-based architecture, interiors and objects practice Complete Thought Studio share five minutes and five insights with Australian Design Review.

Origin story

We met early in our architecture studies and spent the first part of our careers working for a range of practices in both Sydney and London. Over time, we found ourselves questioning the systems, values and methodology that defined much of conventional practice. Complete Thought was founded as a way to work differently, to bring a sense of clarity, order and emotional resonance to the architectural process.

Both of us had also explored projects that sat adjacent to architecture, and the studio became a more formal avenue to pursue a multidisciplinary way of working.

Style

Our style is defined by balance. We work in a nuanced and intelligent way to ensure the joyful expression of a project is in harmony with a grounded functionality. Our imaginative approach always begins with listening: to the client, the site, the history. From there, our goal is to create work that is imbued with the character of a place, but is never overpowering. Something that feels at once inspired, but inevitable.

Secret to staying creative

Staying curious and a little bit irreverent. We find that engaging or reconnecting with the world in new ways, whether through travel, conversation or simply noticing small details, is what fuels our work. Similarly, being overly concerned with trends or what others may think can be incredibly draining. Creativity, for us, is less about forcing ideas and more about staying open and seeing what rises to the surface.

Latest project

We’re wrapping up a heritage apartment renovation and preparing to begin construction on a new beachside house. We’re also finalising the design for a studio-to-one-bedroom apartment conversion, focusing on social sustainability and the use of recycled and low-impact materials.

Top business tip

Listen deeply and look for honest connections to the people around you. It is much easier to lead when you take the time to understand.

This article originally appeared in inside magazine issue 122. Grab a copy here.