Peter Maddison

Peter Maddison is one of Australia’s most respected architects, a multi-award-winning designer, and the celebrated host of Grand Designs Australia. With a career spanning over four decades, Peter has shaped the architectural landscape, blending innovation with an enduring commitment to education, sustainability, and public engagement.

Graduating with a Bachelor of Architecture in 1982, Peter honed his skills at esteemed firms including Peter Crone & Associates, Morris & Pirotta, and Cocks Carmichael before establishing the McIntyre Partnership. In 1988, he launched Peter Maddison Architects, which evolved into Maddison Architects in 1993. Over 30 years, his practice has delivered over 300 projects across residential, hospitality, tourism, educational, and commercial sectors, earning more than 55 prestigious industry awards.

Peter’s dedication to advancing the profession is evident in his longstanding contributions to the Australian Institute of Architects (AIA). He has served on numerous awards juries, chaired the Victorian Awards Juries, contributed to the development of the Client/Architect Agreement, and actively participated as a Senior Counsellor and Victorian Honours Committee member. In recognition of his outstanding contributions, Peter was awarded the Degree of Doctor of Design (Honoris Causa) by RMIT University in 2014 and received the National President’s Prize from the AIA in 2016 for Australian Achievement in Architecture.

In 2009, Peter took on the role of host for Grand Designs Australia, captivating audiences with his insightful storytelling and ability to make architecture accessible to the wider public. The show quickly became LifeStyle’s most successful local production, reaching an audience of 4.5 million Australians annually. His ability to critically evaluate projects while celebrating their innovation has positioned him as one of the nation’s most influential voices in design. His work with Grand Designs has led to numerous accolades, including ASTRA Awards, Logie nominations, and AACTA Award recognitions.

Beyond television, Peter has also played a pivotal role in shaping Australia’s architectural discourse. He is the Editor-at-Large for Grand Designs Australia Magazine and the author of ‘Grand Designs Australia: The Handbook’, a comprehensive guide to residential architecture and building.

A passionate advocate for social responsibility in architecture, Peter serves as an ambassador for Open House Melbourne, Architects Without Frontiers, and the Planet Ark-endorsed Environmental Edge campaign. He also supports Kids Under Cover, a charity dedicated to preventing youth homelessness.

With his unwavering passion for design, education, and advocacy, Peter Maddison continues to inspire professionals and enthusiasts alike, ensuring that architecture remains at the forefront of Australia’s evolving cultural and environmental landscape.