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MCGIRR VAN HORNE

Architecture & Interior Design
Design & Project Management
Client Representation

about

Hi! I'm Pamela. I am an architect and interior designer with more than twenty years of experience across residential, hospitality, retail and public projects.I create places, buildings and interiors that are functional, welcoming and age well. MCGIRR VAN HORNE is my Melbourne-based studio.

my story

I've worked with leading architectural practices, universities and developers in New York City and Melbourne, contributing to projects ranging from bespoke homes and hospitality venues to major civic, cultural and campus developments.My career began at Denton Corker Marshall, where as a graduate architect I worked on the competition for the Museum of Victoria. The project was won, and more than 25 years later the museum remains one of Melbourne's most significant public buildings. It was an extraordinary place to learn the craft of architecture.Curiosity then took me to New York. A student visa and a Master's degree from Yale opened the door to ten formative years in the city. I joined Davis Brody Bond, working on an addition to the New York Public Library on Fifth Avenue, before moving to Robert A.M. Stern Architects. There I worked on high-end residential projects across the United States and the restoration of one of America's oldest regional theatres.Returning to Melbourne with my American spouse—also an architect, and the Van Horne in the practice name—I joined Grimshaw, contributing to civic, hospitality and retail projects before moving client-side to the University of Melbourne. There I developed project briefs, guided stakeholder engagement and helped shape significant campus developments.Across each stage of my career, one idea has remained constant: every project has its own logic and character. Whether working on a private home or a major institution, I'm drawn to solving complex planning problems, celebrating craftsmanship and creating places that feel grounded, generous and connected to their context.

my work

The selection of projects shown on this website represents the range of experience accumulated throughout my career, including work undertaken while employed by other architectural practices and organisations, together with independent commissions and collaborations.Specific project credits are available on request.