The People

Ian Coleman: Principal
Bachelor of Architecture (Honours)
Victorian Registered Architect No. 13722
Member of the Australian Institute Architects
Member of Association of Consulting Architects

Ian Coleman graduated from the University of Melbourne with a Bachelor of Architecture (Hons) degree in 1981, is a registered architect in the State of Victoria and a member of the Australian Institute of Architects. In 1982 he joined Paul McDonald & Associates Pty Ltd, a small architectural practice specialising in hospitality work, and became a partner in the growing company in 1986. Subsequently known as McDonald Coleman Architects, the practice carried out a wide range of work including commercial, retail, residential, recreational, hospitality and heritage related projects throughout metropolitan Melbourne and regional Victoria. Ian was responsible for the design, documentation and contract administration of projects ranging up to $28,000,000 in value.

Throughout this period, Ian also pursued his interest in built heritage and developed his expertise in the technical aspects of conservation practice, and in the preparation of Heritage Assessments, Conservation Management Plans and Heritage Impact Statements. From 1990 to 2009, Ian provided Heritage Advisory Services to the Shire of Maldon and its successor, Mount Alexander Shire, and to Korong (later Loddon) Shire for 6 years. From 2011 Ian has been the Heritage Advisor to the City of Whitehorse.

Ian has recognised expertise in identifying the potential of heritage places, resolving practical solutions in adaptive re-use and in the integration of contemporary requirements in heritage places. He provides consulting services to projects outside the practice, undertaking critical assessments of projects in sensitive heritage environments, assisting with creative solutions that will address the heritage imperatives of the place, negotiating with heritage authorities and providing supporting documentation for permit applications.