A Conversation with H4 Living’s Head Designer

Joe Reggi

In this insightful conversation we sit down with Joe Reggi, the head designer at H4 Living, to explore his remarkable journey in building design spanning nearly five decades.

From his early passion for art inspired by family to his evolution into a leading figure in custom luxury homes, Joe shares his design philosophy that emphasises functionality, sustainability, and a deep connection to the natural environment. As we delve into his experiences, inspirations, and vision for the future of design, we gain a unique perspective on how H4 Living is redefining residential spaces to enhance the lives of homeowners. Join us as we uncover the principles that drive Joe’s creativity and his commitment to building homes that truly resonate with their inhabitants.

1. How long have you been practicing as a building designer? Can you tell us about your journey and how you got into design?

I’ve been practicing as a building designer for about 45 years. My journey began at a very young age, fuelled by a love for drawing, art, and handwriting. An uncle in Italy inspired me with his impressive drawings, which ignited my passion for art. In high school, I excelled in technical and perspective drawing, earning top marks. I even designed a school logo for a state competition, winning a transistor radio in 1976—my first commission!

I studied Built Environment at QIT, now QUT, and started my career at a research and development company. There, I was mentored in design and detailing, gaining hands-on experience by building modules in the factory and working on-site. This taught me the importance of executing designs correctly.

I worked with three major project home companies, where I had the opportunity to design homes, and my reputation grew. At my last company, I helped establish a custom design division that supported sales teams in producing one-off designs, which we called “Private Design.”

In 1997, I took the leap to work independently, crafting custom concept designs for different building firms. As a long-standing member of the Building Design Association, I had the opportunity to serve as a design judge. Initially hesitant to enter competitions, I eventually submitted a design after encouragement from my colleagues. I was delighted to win the Regional, State, and Premier Awards in 2015, and I achieved this honour once more in 2024.

Throughout my career, H4 has felt like family, embodying our shared philosophy of designing personalised, sustainable homes.

2. How would you describe your design philosophy and style, particularly when it comes to custom luxury homes? What key design principles do you consider when designing a home?

My design philosophy centres around the idea that a space must feel and look right to be truly functional. I believe in creating environments where spaces interact and flow seamlessly. Homes don’t need to be large; even small homes can feel expansive when spaces are arranged thoughtfully, connecting indoors and outdoors in harmonious proportions. I incorporate biophilic design practices, which emphasise our connection to nature, to enhance this relationship.

My experience in designing project homes has equipped me to create tailored spaces for custom homes. I prioritise proper orientation, ensuring that morning sunlight fills bedrooms, bathrooms, and kitchens, enhancing our daily awakening.

As for style, I believe it should always reflect the client’s vision. I don’t adhere to a particular style; instead, my approach is to enhance and realise my clients’ dream aesthetics. By focusing on these key principles—flow, orientation, air quality, and client vision—I aim to create luxurious, custom homes that truly resonate with their inhabitants.

3. What made you choose residential design?

I chose residential design because it feels more personal and emotionally connected. Working closely with clients allows me to engage with their dreams and needs, creating spaces that truly reflect their lives. In contrast, industrial and commercial design often feels more detached, driven primarily by profit and yield. I find great fulfillment in crafting homes that resonate on a personal level.

4. What aspects of being a designer do you enjoy the most?

I truly enjoy meeting wonderful clients and transforming their visions into reality. There’s an incredible satisfaction that comes from being in the zone—when a design feels right, everything falls into place. Presenting my work and witnessing the excitement on their faces as their dream becomes a reality is one of the most rewarding aspects of being a designer.

5. How does your design philosophy align with the H4 Living principles?

My design philosophy centres on creating beautiful spaces with pleasing proportions that are functional and easy to navigate. I believe in avoiding overly extravagant architecture, which can drive up costs unnecessarily. Instead, I apply universal housing principles that support multi-generational living, aligning seamlessly with the H4 Living principles. H4 Living's focus on PassivHaus and sustainable design resonates deeply with my approach, ensuring that homes are not only aesthetically appealing but also energy-efficient and environmentally responsible for diverse lifestyles.

6. What is your approach when working with clients who want a custom home?

My approach when working with clients who want a custom home begins with listening carefully to their needs and desires. I believe it’s essential to get to know clients on a personal level, as this helps me understand their lifestyle and aspirations more deeply. I also take into account the size and budget constraints to ensure the design aligns with their vision while remaining practical. This collaborative process allows us to create a home that truly reflects who they are.

7. Where do you draw your inspiration from?

 I draw inspiration from everyday observations of buildings, reading design magazines, watching documentaries, and traveling abroad. Exploring the history of architecture allows me to study how past challenges have been addressed in design. All of these experiences contribute to my "brain bank" of ideas and solutions, enriching my creative process.

8. In what areas do you believe the Australian standards let down homeowners, and what improvements do you think are needed?

I believe the Australian standards have fallen short in several areas, particularly in addressing the evolving demographics and environmental needs of homeowners. They need to be updated to reflect contemporary lifestyles. Homes should be designed to be more user-friendly and sustainable, ultimately contributing to a happier, healthier life for residents.

H4 Living is helping to set a better standard by incorporating PassivHaus principles and designing in accordance with Liveable Housing Standards, ensuring we build homes that exceed national benchmarks. These improvements will create spaces that truly meet the needs of today’s homeowners.

9. What has surprised you the most about living in a passive house, despite being aware of its benefits beforehand?

Living in a passive home has been an eye-opening experience. It’s incredibly comfortable, quiet, and energy efficient. The difference between the indoor and outdoor environments is striking—like chalk and cheese. I was initially sceptical, but I’ve come to appreciate the benefits of a passive house. Now, I genuinely don’t think I could ever go back to living in a standard home. The advantages are more profound than I had anticipated, making everyday life so much more enjoyable.

10. Looking ahead, what excites you most about the future of building design in Australia?

Changes are finally starting to happen in building design in Australia, and they’re moving in a positive direction. While progress may be slow, I believe we will get there. I’m excited to see the continual evolution of new and creative designs that will enhance the way we live. The potential for innovation and sustainability in our homes is truly inspiring.

11. What do you feel you have contributed to the design industry throughout your career?

I take pride in knowing that I have contributed to designing the built environment in ways that improve the lives and mental well-being of homeowners. Being part of this process and creating spaces that enhance daily living is incredibly fulfilling.

12. What encourages you to continue designing with H4 Living?

H4 Living is truly ahead of its time, leading the way for how we should all be living. By incorporating the PassivHaus building standard and adhering to Livable Housing standards, H4 Living sets a benchmark for sustainability and accessibility. This innovative approach inspires me to continue designing with them, as it aligns with my values of creating meaningful spaces that enhance the quality of life for homeowners.

13. Is there anything else you’d like to share about your vision for the future of design?

I believe we should all be moving in the same direction to make good design a true jewel in our lives. By prioritising thoughtful, sustainable design, we can enhance our environments and elevate our daily experiences. My vision for the future of design is one where beautiful, functional spaces enrich our lives and foster a deeper connection to our surroundings.