Santelli Chong Architects is a Perth-based architectural practice shaped by more than four decades of experience and a strong belief in honest, collaborative design. Emerging from a multi-generational practice founded in the late 1980s by Al Santelli, the studio is built on enduring values: approachability, integrity, and a genuine commitment to its clients.

Now led by Directors Aaron Santelli and Chun Chong, who lead all projects, the practice brings together complementary strengths. Design creativity and client-focused thinking are paired with technical rigour, disciplined processes, and a deep understanding of how buildings are delivered in the real world. Aaron’s lifelong connection to the original Santelli practice continues to inform the studio’s working principles, grounding each project in clarity, care, and responsibility.

Santelli Chong Architects is highly regarded for its work in educational architecture, with a long and trusted relationship with Catholic Education Western Australia (CEWA). Over decades, the practice has supported schools through master planning, staged development, and full campus delivery. This experience is built on strong relationships, careful listening, and a consistent focus on delivering projects on time, within budget, and to a high standard of quality.

At the heart of the practice is a belief that well-designed learning environments can have a lasting, positive impact. Santelli Chong Architects creates places where students and staff feel supported and safe, where teaching and learning are clearly enabled, and where school communities can take genuine pride in their environment.

Every project is approached as a shared endeavour. Clients, architects, consultants, and builders are seen as one team, working collaboratively toward a common goal. This mindset has fostered many long-standing relationships and repeat commissions across Western Australia.

“From the initial conceptualisation to the final execution, Santelli Chong demonstrated professionalism, expertise, and a genuine commitment to excellent outcomes. Their attention to detail, innovative design solutions, and ability to translate our vision were exceptional.

Both Aaron and Chun deeply understood our requirements and consistently went beyond to ensure the final deliverables exceeded expectations. Their communication, technical proficiency, and collaborative approach were pivotal to the project’s success.”            Andrea Millar, Principal, Liwara Catholic School

While education remains a core specialisation, the skills developed in this sector translate seamlessly into other building typologies, including performing arts facilities, specialist learning environments, sports and recreation buildings, and broader community projects. With proven experience in campus planning, access compliance, low-cost institutional design, and complex staging on live operational sites, Santelli Chong Architects brings a calm, capable, and well-tested approach to every architectural challenge.