Some homes have a way of standing the test of time. Decades after they were built, they still feel considered, timeless and every bit as relevant as they were the day they were designed. More often than not, that's no coincidence. It's the result of architects who challenged convention and reimagined what a Perth home could be.

From introducing climate-responsive design to redefining indoor-outdoor living, these architects have helped shape the character of Perth's residential landscape. Whether you're an architecture enthusiast, a homeowner or simply someone who appreciates great design, these are five of the architects whose influence continues to be seen across Perth today.

Iwan Iwanoff

Era of Influence | 1960s–1980s

You can't talk about Perth architecture without mentioning Iwan Iwanoff. Renowned for his bold modernist architecture with distinctive Brutalist influences, he is arguably Perth's most celebrated residential architect, leaving a lasting mark on the city's residential landscape.

His homes stood apart for their geometric forms, split levels, sculptural concrete blockwork and thoughtfully designed courtyards that embraced Perth's climate. Long before these design principles became common, Iwanoff was creating homes that embraced natural light, encouraged airflow and blurred the line between indoor and outdoor living. More than half a century later, his work continues to inspire architects and homeowners alike.

Some of his best-known Perth homes include:

• Marsala House, Dianella
• Schmidt-Lademann House, Floreat
• Paganin House, Floreat
• Kessell House, Dianella
• Tomich House, City Beach

Brian Klopper

Era of Influence | 1970s–2000s

Known for his organic modernist style, Brian Klopper challenged conventional residential design with homes that felt sculptural, expressive and deeply connected to their surroundings. Steel-framed windows, cut limestone blockwork, exposed timber ceilings and a rich palette of recycled brick and timber became hallmarks of his work, giving each home a distinctive warmth and character.

Well ahead of his time, Klopper pioneered the adaptive reuse of warehouses and industrial buildings while embracing recycled materials and innovative construction techniques. His work helped redefine residential architecture in Perth, proving that homes built with raw, recycled materials could be both innovative and timeless.

Some of his best-known Perth homes include:

• Park Street House, Subiaco
• Hopetoun Terrace House, Shenton Park
• The Primaries Wool Store Townhouse Conversion, Fremantle
• Klopper Residence, Nedlands

Raymond Jones

Era of Influence | 1950s–1980s

Known for his mid-century modern approach to residential architecture, Raymond Jones was one of Perth's early modernist architects, helping reshape the way homes were designed in Western Australia. At a time when traditional housing dominated Perth's suburbs, he introduced a more considered approach that embraced simplicity, functionality and the local climate.

His homes were designed to maximise natural light, encourage natural ventilation and create a stronger connection to outdoor spaces through open, functional layouts. Many of the principles Jones championed remain central to the way Perth homes are designed today.

Some of his best-known Perth homes include:

• Kiernan House, Dalkeith
• Jones House, Cottesloe
• Ainslie Road House, North Fremantle
• Church of St Cecilia, Floreat

Peter Overman

Era of Influence | 1960s–1990s

Known for his thoughtful approach to contemporary residential architecture, Peter Overman has built a reputation for creating highly liveable homes that are carefully tailored to their surroundings. His work is defined by beautifully proportioned spaces, natural light and a timeless simplicity that places function at the heart of every design.

Rather than relying on bold statements, Overman's homes demonstrate how careful planning and attention to detail can create spaces that remain relevant for generations. His work continues to reinforce the value of designing homes around lifestyle, site and longevity rather than passing trends.

Some of his best-known Perth homes include:

• Overman Residence, Applecross
• Williams House, Applecross
• Naughton House, Mosman Park
• Pearce House, Ardross
• McNeil House, Peppermint Grove

Neil Cownie

Era of Influence | 1990s–Present

Known for his refined contemporary Australian style, Neil Cownie has spent more than three decades designing some of Perth's most admired homes and his work continues today. His architecture is recognised for its clean lines, carefully considered proportions, natural materials and unique aesthetic.

Rather than following trends, Cownie creates homes that respond to their site, maximise natural light and create effortless connections between indoor and outdoor living. His understated approach continues to set the benchmark for contemporary residential architecture in Perth.

Some of his best-known Perth homes include:

• Roscommon House, Floreat
• 123 House, Nedlands
• River House, Peppermint Grove

The work of these architects has helped shape the evolution of residential architecture in Perth, with many of their ideas now considered fundamental to modern home design. From thoughtful planning to stronger connections between indoor and outdoor living, their influence continues to be reflected in homes across the city, showing that exceptional residential design never goes out of style.

Which architect do you think has had the greatest influence on Perth's homes?