The Art of House Design
Akehurst Owen Cimino is an architectural and interior design practice, specialising in timeless residential projects.
As the practice now evolves under three partners, our perspectives broaden, whilst remaining grounded to our core values of proportion, detail and quality, which have long shaped our work.
Our design approach combines both classic and contemporary influences, drawing on historical references while responding to modern living. The result is architecture that is purposeful, comfortable, and enduring.
Natural materials are central to our work. These materials gather a richness over time. Like the houses we design, they are intended to evolve with the lives of the people who live in them.
Whilst residential projects remain central to our practice, our work also includes equestrian and recreational projects, town houses and apartments. Each are approached with the same attention to detail and consideration.
Looking ahead, we remain committed to crafting architecture that is both lasting and liveable—carefully designed, precisely built and defined by quality and style.
Stephen Akehurst is a respected Australian residential designer, renowned for his timeless approach to architecture and enduring contribution to the Australian design landscape. For over 30 years, Stephen has created elegant houses for modern day living—drawing inspiration from classical traditions while responding sensitively to their metropolitan, coastal or rural settings.
Focusing primarily on high-end residential projects throughout Australia and beyond, Stephen has become known for his ability to create houses that look impressive and are welcoming — spaces that age gracefully, are crafted with care, and embrace natural materials and traditional detailing.
Stephen’s work is distinguished by its architectural quality, due to a respect for craftsmanship and collaboration. His projects often involve long-standing relationships with skilled tradespeople and artisans, and his mentorship has shaped a generation of architects and designers working across Australia.
With an unwavering commitment to quality and a quiet authority in his design philosophy, Stephen Akehurst has established a legacy that continues to influence the evolution of Australian residential design.
Sebastian Owen is an accomplished architect and design leader with over a decade of experience spanning architecture, interiors and workplace strategy. With a diverse portfolio that bridges luxury residential, commercial, multi-residential and recreational sectors, he is known for delivering finely crafted, highly complex projects.
Sebastian begun his career in architectural practice before gaining on-site experience through carpentry on Stephen Akehurst projects — a move that sharpened his understanding of construction and brought new depth to his design approach. He refined his architectural thinking under the mentorship of Peter McIntyre, one of Australia’s most iconic architects, and later broadened his global perspective while working in design throughout Berlin, Amsterdam and Paris.
After working closely alongside Stephen Akehurst for ten years, Sebastian became a partner in the practice in 2020 alongside Marco. Since then, he has played a pivotal role in leading the studio into its next stage of growth, design evolution, and mentorship. His approach focuses on collaboration throughout the design journey, from conceptual planning through to landscape and interiors in delivering cohesive, considered projects.
Sebastian’s architecture balances timeless design with both contemporary and classic influences, shaped by an honest use of materials and a focus on purposeful, well-considered spaces.
Akehurst Owen Cimino | Nominated Architect
Sebastian Owen | NSW Architect Registration Number 12208
Originally from Torino, Italy, Marco Cimino is an experienced architectural professional whose career bridges European heritage principles with contemporary Australian design. After earning his degree in Architecture and Heritage from the renowned Politecnico di Torino, Marco spent over two years working on project development and delivery for leading architectural firms in Torino, gaining invaluable experience in classical design and conservation.
In 2014, Marco moved to Australia, where he began with hands-on construction experience across high-end residential builds—working from structural phases through to final finishes. This immersive, on-site foundation cemented his practical understanding of materials, detailing, and the construction process.
Marco joined the practice shortly after, beginning a decade-long involvement in delivering some of its most intricate and considered projects. These ranged from significant Heritage and National Trust-listed sites — showcasing his refined understanding of form and spatial nuance — to a wide spectrum of contemporary work, reflecting the breadth of his architectural capability.