We believe great design is the result of curiosity, research and collaboration, and that the experience should be enjoyable, clear and client-driven.
We specialise in high-end, unique single and dual residences, as well as select developments. By taking on fewer projects, we dedicate the time and attention needed to deliver outcomes of the highest quality. Clients engage with our full studio rather than a single individual, building trust and ensuring a responsive, collaborative process.
Recognition by platforms like The Local Project and our investment in a long-term studio space reflect a commitment to quality at every level – from our designs to our client experience.
868 is more than an architecture practice. It is a studio of complementary disciplines working together to form a self-sustaining ecosystem.
Interiors that balance precision and warmth. The same rigour of process applies, but with a nurturing focus on materiality, detail and how spaces feel day to day. Each interior is guided by the architecture yet shaped around how people live – connecting form, function and atmosphere into one cohesive outcome.
868 is a collective of architects, designers and collaborators. Our projects are shaped by the creativity and knowledge of the whole studio.
Robert Chapman-Malec is the founding Director of 868 Architects, leading the practice with a philosophy that successful architecture is born from a partnership between designer, builder, and client. With over a decade of experience as a registered architect in New South Wales, Robert has established 868 Architects as a premier design studio in the Sutherland Shire, celebrated for delivering unique, high-performance homes that stand the test of time.
Robert’s leadership is defined by a rare duality in the industry: a background in elite architectural design combined with hands-on construction management. Drawing on his tenure as an Architect at the prestigious SJB and Couvaras Architects, where he honed his skills in complex multi-residential and single residential design, and his time as a Design Manager for the award-winning builder BRONXX, Robert possesses a technical fluency that instills absolute client confidence. He bridges the gap between ambitious concepts and buildable reality, ensuring that every project—from boutique alterations to ambitious developments—is delivered with commercial security and design integrity.
Under his direction, 868 Architects has garnered significant industry recognition. The firm’s commitment to ‘liveable luxury’ was recently celebrated with a 2025 HIA Award for NSW Residential Design and a feature in The Local Project for the ‘Sole House’—a testament to Robert’s focus on creating spaces that offer a restorative, no compromise, resort-like experience for families.
Beyond the studio, Robert is driven by a passion for mechanical precision and history, an interest reflected in his love for performance and historic vehicles. This appreciation for fine engineering and timeless aesthetics influences his architectural work, where every detail is tuned for performance and every material selected for its enduring quality.
Specialising in both interior design and architecture, Lauren plays a crucial collaborative role across both disciplines at 868. Always working closely with clients, consultants, and the broader team to translate ideas into meaningful architectural solutions that elevate everyday experience. She values material integrity and innovative problem-solving, ensuring each project is crafted with care and long-term value in mind. Outside of work, you’ll find her adventuring with her dog Bentley, catching up with friends or heading away for a weekend escape.
Born at a very young age, Joshua is a Graduate of Architecture with over four years of local experience and an ever-growing reputation for fast, clever concept work — earning him the team nickname “One Day DA.” As Concept Design Lead at 868 Architects, he pairs strong technical skill with imaginative, sometimes delightfully outrageous ideas that push each project’s potential.
He enjoys using design as a problem-solving tool, transforming client briefs into built reality while navigating the inevitable maze of site constraints. With a personable and collaborative approach, he works closely with consultants as each project develops from concept through to documentation.
Joshua’s dream brief would see natural elements embedded within the Australiana landscape, thoughtfully integrated while respecting heritage overlays and adding playful touches of colour.
When he manages to escape his desk, Joshua can be found at live gigs, hunting down new vinyl, expanding his Star Wars LEGO empire, or sinking a few cans with the boys.
Shaelee is a detail-driven interior designer, dedicated to crafting spaces that authentically reflect her clients’ aspirations. Her grounded, thoughtful approach ensures every design decision is purposeful and deeply considered. With experience spanning high-end residential and commercial projects, she brings a refined understanding of how people live in—and move through—space.
Shaelee’s strength lies in her extensive product and material knowledge, consistently staying ahead of emerging innovations to integrate them seamlessly into projects. She is committed to creating well rounded interiors that align effortlessly with the architectural intent of each project.
Outside the studio, Shaelee spends most of her time outdoors, swimming, bushwalking and trying to exhaust her Border Collie. If she’s doing none of the above, you can usually find her in the kitchen, practicing her love language – cooking for family and friends.
Ulani has been with the team from the beginning of her career in Interiors, allowing her to develop a strong understanding of the processes and standards that exemplar 868. Her designs bring a fresh perspective to interiors, not shy of colour or tactile materials, she has developed a portfolio of diverse, residential and hospitality projects. Ulani’s skills in the design world are multifaceted. She has a keen eye and well-rounded knowledge for product and furniture design, often spending her weekends creating and fabricating pieces for herself, her family, and her friends.
Jack is a graduate architect who joined 868 in 2025 as a student architect.
He completed his Bachelor of Architecture at Victoria University of Wellington before graduating with his Master’s at UNSW in Sydney. Jack has a keen passion for residential architecture, often drawing inspiration from the landscapes and stories that surrounded him growing up in New Zealand. His design process begins with sketching, a practice that allows ideas to take shape naturally before being developed further.
Outside the studio, Jack enjoys surfing and playing golf, bringing the same balance of focus and creativity to his time away from architecture.
We are always looking for talented people to join our studio. Our studio values curiosity, rigour and collaboration. If you are passionate about creating spaces that endure, we would love to hear from you.
868 Architects is looking for a talented and enthusiastic graduate architect to join their studio in the Sutherland Shire.
You will have the opportunity to work with a dynamic and supportive team on a range of award winning, high-end residential projects. Your role will involve working with the Director and team on the design and documentation development of various projects.
To apply for this position, please forward over your CV and a portfolio to admin@868.au.
