Sam Alawie

I’ve always been drawn to the built environment—the way spaces can evoke emotion, shape behavior, and frame everyday life. Growing up, I was fascinated by the interaction between structure and space, and how thoughtful design could turn something functional into something poetic. That curiosity naturally led me to architecture. I wouldn’t say I always knew I wanted to be a designer, but I’ve always had a creative instinct. What solidified it for me was the realisation that architecture allows you to merge creativity with logic. It’s not just about making things look beautiful—it’s about solving problems, telling stories through space, and creating environments that people feel connected to. My background is rooted in both architecture and interiors, which has shaped the way I approach design today. I don’t see them as separate disciplines—they inform each other. The interior experience is just as important as the building envelope, and often it’s the dialogue between the two that defines the success of a project.

At Zane Carter Architects, we’re a multidisciplinary design studio focused on creating architecture that’s both thoughtful and transformative. Based in Sydney, specialising in residential projects—but at the core, we’re driven by a deep respect for context, materiality, and human experience. What sets us apart is our commitment to design that is not only visually compelling but also deeply functional and enduring. We believe in crafting spaces that tell a story—where every curve, line, and texture serves a purpose.

For me, design is about intention. It’s the art of problem-solving with purpose, where every decision—whether it’s a structural gesture or the grain of timber on a joinery unit—serves a clear function and contributes to the overall experience of a space. Design isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about creating moments. It’s how a space makes you feel when you walk into it, how it flows, how it supports your day-to-day life without demanding attention. Good design is quiet but powerful—it’s intuitive, refined, and often goes unnoticed because it simply works.

I’m most drawn to projects that require a high level of thoughtfulness—where space is limited, the brief is ambitious, and there’s an opportunity to really dig deep into how people live. I also really enjoy projects where architecture and interiors are conceived as one. When we can carry a concept through every detail—from the overall form down to the joinery handles—it creates a sense of unity that you can feel. Those are the kinds of projects I find most satisfying.

The first thing I designed for a company was a residential restoration of a heritage house. There’s something incredibly special about restoring and reimagining old buildings—bringing them into the present while respecting their past. It’s not just about preservation; it’s about understanding the original craftsmanship, the proportions, the materials, and then layering in contemporary functionality and design.

I feel most creative when there’s a clear constraint or challenge to work within. It might sound counterintuitive, but limitations—whether it’s a tight site, a complex brief, or a heritage overlay—often spark the most inventive solutions. That’s when the design process becomes truly engaging. You’re forced to dig deeper, think laterally, and question the obvious.

The best way to reach me is through Zane Carter Architects. You can contact our studio directly via our website or on Instagram where you'll find a contact form and all the relevant details.