mima, pronounced my-ma, is an architecture and interior design practice specialising in unique projects that pursue timelessness.
We are fascinated by the process of using stories and history, be it of a place, a person or an object, to help inform design of all types. Employing a vast range of ideas, references, histories, methods, materials and objects: from the unorthodox to the pedigreed.
mima knows that good architecture responds to multiple pressures in a graceful and innovative manner. Budget, time, site: these are not constraints to work around, but opportunities to rigorously test ideas and create designs that truly fit the brief. A thorough understanding of a proposed site is central to this: its artistic, historical, topographical and climatic influences; the pragmatic realities of construction; the suitability of materials; and the ever-important budgetary parameters set by you, the client, to be respected, always.
As a collective, mima knows that design doesn't exist in a vacuum. Understanding your motives and vision is paramount. Most importantly, we aim to facilitate an enjoyable process for both client and design team, brought about by good communication throughout the journey.
Central to mima's work are quality, long-term relationships with clients, builders, craftsmen and consultants. Good architecture is a cumulative effort from all involved. It will be intergenerational. It is also a responsible use of our earth's finite resources. A building that is loved and lived in will ultimately be maintained and cherished over a long period of time.
We are fascinated by the process of using stories and history, be it of a place, a person or an object, to help inform design of all types. Employing a vast range of ideas, references, histories, methods, materials and objects: from the unorthodox to the pedigreed.
mima knows that good architecture responds to multiple pressures in a graceful and innovative manner. Budget, time, site: these are not constraints to work around, but opportunities to rigorously test ideas and create designs that truly fit the brief. A thorough understanding of a proposed site is central to this: its artistic, historical, topographical and climatic influences; the pragmatic realities of construction; the suitability of materials; and the ever-important budgetary parameters set by you, the client, to be respected, always.
As a collective, mima knows that design doesn't exist in a vacuum. Understanding your motives and vision is paramount. Most importantly, we aim to facilitate an enjoyable process for both client and design team, brought about by good communication throughout the journey.
Central to mima's work are quality, long-term relationships with clients, builders, craftsmen and consultants. Good architecture is a cumulative effort from all involved. It will be intergenerational. It is also a responsible use of our earth's finite resources. A building that is loved and lived in will ultimately be maintained and cherished over a long period of time.
Studio Principal
Jemima Manton
NSW #10163
Design Practitioner DEP0004001
Jemima Manton
NSW #10163
Design Practitioner DEP0004001
mima was established in 2020 by Jemima Manton, an award winning architect and art curator with a strong understanding of hands-on construction methods. Jemima brings 15 years of extensive project experience across high-end residential, hotel, sporting facilities and large public works, from feasibility through to construction. She is a registered architect and Class 2 qualified design practitioner.
Her collaborative approach couples creativity with strong budgetary oversight and buildability, resulting in high quality, successful projects that truly represent the client. With extensive experience across design, detailing, construction and project management, Jemima is involved at every stage of the process.
Current work includes the driving range at Spring Valley Golf Club, one of Melbourne's prestige Sandbelt golf clubs, and a high-end residential project in Double Bay, Sydney.
Being a small and considered practice, all clients have the bespoke opportunity of working directly with Jemima throughout every stage of their project.
Her collaborative approach couples creativity with strong budgetary oversight and buildability, resulting in high quality, successful projects that truly represent the client. With extensive experience across design, detailing, construction and project management, Jemima is involved at every stage of the process.
Current work includes the driving range at Spring Valley Golf Club, one of Melbourne's prestige Sandbelt golf clubs, and a high-end residential project in Double Bay, Sydney.
Being a small and considered practice, all clients have the bespoke opportunity of working directly with Jemima throughout every stage of their project.
Education
2009
B. Design (architecture)
University of Newcastle
2012
Masters of Architecture
University of Newcastle
Hons. I (First Class Honours)
2014
Masters Art Curating
GC obtained
University of Sydney
B. Design (architecture)
University of Newcastle
2012
Masters of Architecture
University of Newcastle
Hons. I (First Class Honours)
2014
Masters Art Curating
GC obtained
University of Sydney
Awards
2021
National AIA Walter Burley Griffin award for Sub Base Platypus (lazhnimmo architects)
2021
NSW AIA Lloyd Rees award for Sub Base Platypus (lazhnimmo architects)
2021
NSW AIA Urban Design award for Sub Base Platypus (lazhnimmo architects)
2021
NSW AIA Heritage Architecture award for Sub Base Platypus (lazhnimmo architects)
2021
The National Trust Heritage award for Sub Base Platypus (lazhnimmo architects)
2020
NSW Small Project Architecture Commendation for Mahon Pool Amenities (lazhnimmo architects)
2019
NSW AIA Urban Design Commendation for Elizebeth Bay Marina (lazhnimmo architects)
2013
Nominated for NSW AIA Student Design Medal
2013
AIA NSW Chapter History and Theory Prize
2012
Dean of Architecture Medal
National AIA Walter Burley Griffin award for Sub Base Platypus (lazhnimmo architects)
2021
NSW AIA Lloyd Rees award for Sub Base Platypus (lazhnimmo architects)
2021
NSW AIA Urban Design award for Sub Base Platypus (lazhnimmo architects)
2021
NSW AIA Heritage Architecture award for Sub Base Platypus (lazhnimmo architects)
2021
The National Trust Heritage award for Sub Base Platypus (lazhnimmo architects)
2020
NSW Small Project Architecture Commendation for Mahon Pool Amenities (lazhnimmo architects)
2019
NSW AIA Urban Design Commendation for Elizebeth Bay Marina (lazhnimmo architects)
2013
Nominated for NSW AIA Student Design Medal
2013
AIA NSW Chapter History and Theory Prize
2012
Dean of Architecture Medal
Press
The Design Files, How Pistachio sorbet + fishing trips inspired this ecectic Syndye apartment, July 2026