




Since 1998, Michael Bell Architects has been trusted for high-end residential design in Point Piper, Sydney. With expertise in heritage homes, sloped waterfront sites, and view-optimised layouts, the practice combines decades of architectural experience with local insight to meet the area's strict planning standards and client expectations.
Schedule 30 Min Free ConsultationMichael Bell Architects has specialised in high-end residential architecture in Point Piper, Sydney since 1998. Our portfolio includes a heritage-listed British Colonial home on Wolseley Road, featuring new additions, a pool, and secondary dwelling. With expertise in Woollahra Council planning, sloped harbourfront sites, and heritage design, we deliver context-driven, site-responsive homes.
Michael Bell Architects is an Australian residential architecture firm with more than 25 years of experience designing homes that respond to history, site, and modern living needs. Known for its expertise in heritage-sensitive projects, rural estates, and custom modern residences, the studio brings clarity and precision to every commission.
Each design reflects a strong understanding of planning requirements, environmental context, and client priorities. Projects often involve heritage-listed properties, steep or coastal land, and complex regulatory frameworks. Classical principles are applied with modern functionality to deliver homes that are lasting, well-composed, and contextually relevant.
Recognised by the National Trust and featured in major design publications, the practice maintains a strong reputation for architectural quality and integrity. Michael Bell Architects continues to be trusted for delivering award-winning homes across NSW that are carefully designed, technically sound, and deeply connected to their setting.
Michael Bell Architects has delivered a portfolio of award-winning homes that span heritage-listed restorations, rural homesteads, and classically inspired new builds. With each project, the studio balances historical context, planning complexity, and design precision. Recognition from the National Trust reflects a long-standing commitment to quality and place-specific architecture.
Preserve Point Piper’s historical charm with our expert restorations, blending timeless heritage with the functionality of modern living.
From family homes to luxury additions, our designs enhance life style while aligning with Point Piper’s architectural character.
We prioritise Eco-friendly materials and energy efficiency, designing sustainable, forward-thinking homes for Sydney’s urban environment.
At Michael Bell Architects, every project begins with a clear understanding of your vision and the specific qualities of your site. In Point Piper, our designs respond to the area’s planning controls, guided by the Woollahra Local Environmental Plan and Development Control Plan. From the outset, zoning, floor space ratios, height limits, and heritage overlays shape the direction of the design.
We start by studying the land. Its slope, orientation, existing tree canopy, and views to Sydney Harbour are all carefully assessed. On steep sites, we consider structural requirements early. For foreshore properties, we follow the Coastal Zone Management Plan and Estuary Planning Level, which help address sea-level rise, erosion, and drainage.
Mature trees are protected or replaced in accordance with Woollahra Council’s Urban Greening Strategy, and stormwater is managed to reduce runoff and maintain water quality.
Designs are developed to suit both the site and the surrounding neighbourhood. We consider natural light, ventilation, and the mix of Federation, Regency, and contemporary architecture found in the area. The result is a clear and responsive process that delivers homes with purpose, sensitivity, and lasting value.
Master Builder
It has been my pleasure to work with Michael Bell and his office over the past 20 years. He has a unique sensitivity to clients, tradesmen and building codes which culminates in the delivery of an outstanding finished residence. While exercising his endless creativity he has a keen sense for practical solutions on and off site which results in much loved homes which are comfortable to live in, and his commercial projects get praise and recognition from all his clients.
“We have completed multiple projects with Michael across Sydney and rural NSW, including major projects for Coolmore Australia and private residential projects in both Point Piper, Mosman & Agnes Banks. Michael has a strong understanding of architectural principles and a desire to create detail quality as well as great aesthetic vision when creating architectural designs. Michael along with Michele is attentive to his client’s wishes and needs and this approach is apparent in the finished product. I have enjoyed working with Michael, and Michael’s ability to work collaboratively with his peers means that good communication and professional insights allow problems to be resolved quickly resulting in a better outcome. I would recommend Michael Bell and Michael Bell Architects to any future clients. The company’s vision, creativity and dedication make them second to none and an outstanding choice when requiring the services of a professional architectural firm”
Principal Architect
Michael has an enthusiastic interest and modern approach to classic design, providing his clients with homes to suit their personalities, family, and lifestyles. He has a deep understanding of how beautifully articulated buildings enrich the lives of current and future owners. With over 30 years’ experience in the high-end residential sector in both Town and Country areas, many people have witnessed their properties transformed into stunningly beautiful and extremely high value investments. Hailing from rural Victoria, Michael's background has instilled in him a resourceful mindset, infusing his approach to both life and work with a pragmatic sensibility. Every client’s needs are different, and this individuality is the cornerstone of the bespoke designs he conceives for them. Michael's passion for exploring less-travelled parts of the world has gifted him with a profound appreciation for a diverse range of architectural styles and their charming idiosyncrasies. Beyond his professional life, he finds joy in riding the waves as an avid surfer and actively participates in grassroots motorsport, making him a multifaceted creative soul.
B Arch, UTS. Reg Arch NSW 6335 Vic 6492
Michele's career spanning three decades, combines the realms of business management and design, delivering invaluable benefits to countless clients. Her journey with MBA, has allowed her to cultivate an extensive knowledge of the design and architecture industry. In her current role as General Manager, Michele orchestrates the seamless operation of MBA day to day. With a strong understanding of our clients' needs, she serves as an exceptional liaison across all facets of our organization. Michele's ability to navigate between financial matters and design solutions, staff necessities, and the meticulous assessment of builder's claims (just to name a few) exemplifies her multifaceted expertise, making her an indispensable asset to MBA.
Assoc Dip Business Management, Dip Interior Design
General Manager
If you’re ready for an initial complimentary consultation with Michael, please book a date and time convenient below.
Initial consultations are limited to 30 mins at no charge, via video call or face to face in our Ultimo studio. If you would like Michael to attend your site, he would be pleased to do so, however an hourly rate fee will be charged.
Michael Bell Architects is known for delivering bespoke residential designs that respect Point Piper’s heritage, coastal environment, and community values. With over 25 years of experience in high-end residential architecture, we specialise in homes that balance timeless design with modern functionality.
Yes. We have extensive experience with Woollahra Council’s Local Environmental Plan (LEP), Heritage Conservation Areas, foreshore building lines, and view-sharing policies. We manage the entire approval process, ensuring your project meets local planning controls.
Absolutely. We specialise in sensitive restoration of Federation homes, Art Deco residences, and heritage-listed properties within Point Piper’s conservation areas. Our expertise ensures heritage integrity is preserved while enhancing comfort and modern living standards.
Our designs incorporate passive solar principles, water efficiency, local material selection, and resilient building methods suited to Point Piper’s marine climate. Sustainability is embedded in both heritage restorations and new contemporary homes.
Yes. As luxury architects Sydney residents trust, we create contemporary homes that respect the scale, rhythm, and material palette of Point Piper’s streetscapes while offering modern living spaces designed for coastal lifestyles.
We provide end-to-end services from initial concept design, Woollahra Council approvals, detailed documentation, contractor coordination, through to construction oversight. Our client-centred process ensures a smooth journey from start to finish.
We specialise in bespoke homes, heritage restorations, dual occupancy developments, and contemporary infill housing tailored to Point Piper’s unique topography, planning regulations, and harbourside setting.
Our design strategies carefully consider neighbouring views and council view-sharing principles. We optimise building forms, setbacks, and heights to achieve desirable outlooks while maintaining planning compliance.
Our deep local knowledge of Point Piper, combined with a legacy of award-winning design, personal attention to every client, and a strong understanding of heritage, coastal design, and council regulations, makes us a trusted architectural partner in the Eastern Suburbs.
Yes. Our site-responsive designs address steep slopes, flood-prone areas, salt exposure, and harbourfront challenges. We select materials and building techniques suited to Point Piper’s coastal environment for longevity and performance.
Yes. We prepare comprehensive Heritage Impact Statements (HIS) as part of development applications, ensuring all works align with Woollahra Council’s heritage guidelines and contribute positively to the local character.
Timelines vary by project scope. Typically, design and approval stages take 3–6 months, while construction ranges from 6–12 months. We provide realistic timeframes and manage every phase to keep your project on track.
Yes. Michael Bell Architects Sydney specialises in luxury residences, combining bespoke design with high-quality materials, refined detailing, and thoughtful spatial planning that enhances Point Piper’s premium lifestyle.
We prioritise transparent communication and collaborative design, ensuring your vision is reflected in every aspect of the project. Our tailored approach delivers homes that are both highly personal and contextually sensitive.
With a proven track record, expertise in heritage and coastal architecture, and a personalised approach to each project, Michael Bell Architects is trusted by Point Piper homeowners seeking high-quality, contextually responsive, and enduring residential design.