IN THE PRESS: Collaborative approach to contemporary builds

With a contemporary, innovative and committed approach, Daniel Cassettai Design Founder Daniel Cassettai has plenty of experience under his belt when it comes to home design.

Inspired from an early age, Mr Cassettai had an eye for improvements right from the beginning.

“When I was in high school my parents renovated our home,” he said.

“I remember thinking how improvements could have been made and how alternative modifications to the layout would’ve resulted in a better space and functionality.”

Earning himself an Associate Diploma of Architecture and working for a boutique building company, Mr Cassettai eventually took the plunge and formed his own company, contracting its design work to some of Perth’s most reputable builders, including Brian Burke Homes Group.

Engaged by the builder to head up its design department three years ago, Brian Burke Homes Group Managing Director Michael Burke said it was an ideal partnership.

“We share a similar philosophy on design and looking after our clients,” he said, adding that Refined Edge by Brian Burke Homes has six homes designed by Daniel Cassettai Designs currently under construction and about a dozen already completed.

Mr Cassettai’s client-focused method distinguishes himself and his talents from other companies and designers, with this philosophy being what made him stand out to Brian Burke Homes.

“I bring every bit of my 25 years of experience into every meeting, with our homes being considered balanced and designed well into the future for our clients,” he said.

“I love presenting that first design solution to a client. Experiencing their reaction and seeing their brief and perspectives come to life on paper is exhilarating.”

Manifesting a down-to-earth approach, Mr Cassettai’s wealth of knowledge extends to being the client as well.

Having the opportunity to oversee the design approach on his own home meant he was able to experience the client process first-hand, further enhancing his methods and practices for new clients today.

“I guess it’s every designer’s dream to own their own home and design it, and a few years ago this came true,” Mr Cassettai said. “Getting to live in and experience the home and process associated with it provided me with a wealth of knowledge and understanding.

“It also helped identify certain areas of improvement for me and the procedures I use as part of my design process.

“Overall, being able to be involved in my own project really strengthened the procedures we have as part of the initial design process.”

All in all, Mr Cassettai said for him, good design wasn’t just about showy features and current trends.

“I try to steer away from aesthetic design trends and focus on contemporary buildability methods and materials,” he said. “We like to explore flexible construction methods and alternatives to traditional materials.

“I see good design becoming more accessible and more affordable.”

Mr Cassettai’s refined approach, focused on brief and budget, has ensured clients get exactly what they want.

Priding themselves on individuality, each home presents a new opportunity for Mr Cassettai to not only create, but observe and gain insight into how each design impacts and suits their life.

“People put their trust in us, and we recognise this,” he said. “We strive to exceed expectations.

“Listening to our client’s needs has become a crucial part of our process, and this results in a home that far surpasses their expectations.”

Working hand in hand with Brian Burke Homes Group, Mr Cassettai has designed award-winning homes with the builder, including a custom build in Karrinyup which took out an award at the 2020 Master Builders-Bankwest Housing Excellence Awards in the Best Contract Home $1-1.5 million category.

The Refined Edge by Brian Burke Homes team and Mr Cassettai worked closely with the clients to deliver a custom build boasting an innovative and intelligent upside-down layout.