Meet Greg McNeil, Design Director at Rachcoff Vella Architecture. RVA is a boutique design-based practice, with work including high end residential houses, medium density developments, and commercial projects. They are committed to developing long term relationships with integrity and honesty, and this is strongly reflected in their efforts to develop innovative and contemporary design solutions that inspire all involved. We took twelve with Greg to find out about the team, discuss their projects, and his favourite architectural style.
George Takes Twelve
1. When I was growing up, I wanted to be…
I had an interest in graphic type art as a young child saw myself as a Sign Writer. Either that or a Policeman, aesthetic or order.
The Vandamm House from North by North West captivated me as a teen. It was this house that drew me toward architecture and building. I can articulate it now……it’s seemingly impossible cliff edge construction, modern forms & aesthetics extending to its interiors. As a teen from the western district of Victoria, this was foreign and inspirational.
2. Can you tell us a little bit about yourself and your company?
I studied Architectural Drafting. This gave me early access to the building industry where I worked for small design practices and construction companies. This was incredible grounding from a technical and accountability perspective.
As a young graduate, I worked for a University Capital Venture Group. Here, I was mentored by an inspiring Design Architect, who gave me opportunities that I am forever grateful for. I developed my philosophy of design; authenticity, relevance, conviction, confidence and the experience to deliver.
Twenty-five years later I have been involved in delivering architectural & interior projects for some of Australia’s largest Architectural Practices, Developers & Builders on many scales, both locally & internationally. The last decade as a sole practitioner delivering bespoke design & sustainable building outcomes cements expertise in Conceptual Design, Master Planning, Sustainability Integration and Design Process Management.
I commenced with Rachcoff Vella Architecture as a Senior Designer in 2017 and become Design Director 2019.
3. How is your studio structured?
2/Primary Directors/Principals
1/Design Director
1/Associate Director
5/Draftpersons
1/Interior Designer
1/Administration
Up to 10 projects at various stages of approval/progress.
4. What exciting projects (present or past) are you proud as punch about?
For me, it is often the small projects that present the biggest challenges in delivering design outcomes. Two recent projects were awarded for Sustainability and Design, one award is presented by Kevin McLeod.
We are nearing a handover for a magnificent project overlooking Port Phillip Bay Black Rock. A very experimental & challenging brief limiting the basic construction & finishes program to 4 finishes – in-situ concrete, recycled timber, brass & glass. Not a shred of plasterboard or paint anywhere. Stay tuned.
5. What’s the most treasured belonging/item in your own home?
A few of my favourite things in my home are:
- Pair of Kjaerholm PK22 easy chairs in original canvas concept
- Set of Bellini Cab Dining Chairs
- A clock and marble nightstand left to me by my parents
6. What’s the most impressive party trick you can muster?
Not applicable.
7. Are there any architectural trends you are excited about?
Not really a trend follower. I am excited more & more by the fact that clients and industry are embracing the concept of sustainable, comfortable, affordable & healthy homes; avoiding the traps of quantity over quality.
8. Tell us about a project that excited you but you never finished.
25 years ago I owned a small 195 sqm block tucked down a dogleg lane in heart of Geelong City. As a young designer, it was my first town planning process and difficult at that with obstructive neighbours. Sense prevailed (wink) and I was about to commence building my haven, a Japanese inspired pavilion & surrounding landscape when I was offered a full-time position in Melbourne. I sold the property at profit with permits and moved to Melbourne to avoid the commute. I still look at this little project with pride and sometimes, tiny regret.
9. What’s your go-to routine to shake off a busy week?
Spending time at home in the garden and with partner and my dog (Roy the Staffordshire Bull Terrier who happens to be a studio resident also).
10. You’ve got a week off, where are you going?
In the garden, with family at the holiday home, out of the city or a short stay getaway.
11. Tell us about your best strategy for those dreaded uninspired moments. What gets you out of slumpville and back climbing the creative pinnacle?
I resort to reading or doodling.
12. Favourite architectural style from a bygone era?
As mentioned previously the Vandamm House was an early inspiration, albeit fictional. It was conceptualised from Frank Lloyd Wright’s work which I have always admired, to the extent of travelling to experience his works in person.
Growing up in the 70’s I was drawn to the simplicity and minimalism of International Style.
My first house was a 1961 International Style. It was designed by an immigrant Polish Architect as his own home for 35 years when it became mine. It was perched on a sloping block, north facing living areas with a double glazed façade & river view all tucked up in a canopy of a giant Golden Elm tree. Dreamlike!
Meet the Architect Radio
“Most Played” Playlist
“I’m fickle and a bit weird when it comes to music and my playlist is odd as a result but here it is. Generally, these pieces are a reflection of poignant times of my life – how I felt, how I wanted to feel and sometimes they felt like the music from my dreams” – Greg
Top Picks
Where to find him
Name: Greg McNeil
Business Name: RVA – Rachcoff Vella Architecture
Job Title: Design Director
Website: www.rachcoffvella.com.au
Instagram: @rachcoffvella
