Our experience working with Mark Alford in his multiple roles as client and contractor for the 490 Consulting Suites project was at all times positive and constructive. Unusually Mark was able to brief us in an informed manner, which was succinct and clear given his experience as a commercial and residential developer and as a builder. This enabled easy communication, a strong and trusting working relationship, prompt decision making and clear instructions. It was obvious that Mark was able to maintain an eye on the big picture of what was driving the project and the detailed elements of the construction. It was a difficult build, on a very narrow site with minimal tolerances and significant heritage constraints, this required an innovative construction approach developed by Mark himself which enabled us to build a 3 storey basement behind an existing heritage listed cottage which was retained on-site during construction. Marks continued push for design excellence gave us the licence to develop a unique project, with a highly recognised design outcome, which would not have been possible without Mark’s wider skill set, knowledge and experience. In projects of this nature, it can sometimes feel like the client, contractor and architect are continually at odds, however, Mark maintained a leadership style and approach which enabled a great degree of solidarity and harmony throughout the design and construction of the project, which we think is reflected in the numerous accolades that the building has received since it’s completion, including as a finalist in the World Architecture Festival’s awards for best Commercial Building”

Shane Thompson, Principal, Shane Thompson Architects