Introducing Roberto Forgione, Principal at CBD Architects

Introducing Roberto Forgione, Principal at CBD Architects

At CBD Architects, architecture is more than design, it’s a dialogue between client, place and long-term value. Guiding that dialogue with experience, clarity and strategic insight is Roberto Forgione principal at CBD Architects, building designer by trade and a seasoned leader in design, client relations and practice oversight. 

Roberto brings decades of experience in architectural design and business leadership to every project. His role at CBD Architects unites technical design capability with an unwavering commitment to client service and organisational excellence, qualities that elevate both the design process and the outcome for clients. 

A Career Rooted in Building Design and Practice Leadership

Roberto’s professional journey is grounded in practical design and multidisciplinary understanding. Before forming CBD Architects, he built a strong foundation as a building designer, with formal qualifications including an Associate Diploma of Building Design, Advanced Certificate in Drafting (Architecture) and an Associate Diploma of Building Construction. 

He also served as Director of Concept Building Design and Drafting, a well-established practice he founded in 1996, which delivered tailored architectural and design solutions across residential and commercial sectors in Western Australia. 

This background, part technical, part business and part creative, gives Roberto a unique vantage point: he understands design not just as form and space, but as a deliverable service that must be well managed, client-centred and outcome-focused.

Today, as Principal at CBD Architects, he continues to apply that blended expertise to guide project strategy, business development and client engagement. 

Championing Client Collaboration and Project Clarity

If design is a journey, Roberto is its navigator. He excels in translating client aspirations into structured design outcomes, bringing empathy, clarity and responsiveness to every conversation. His focus on strong client relations ensures that:

• project goals are fully understood before design begins

• communication is proactive throughout the process

• expectations are aligned with deliverables and timelines

This approach reduces friction and enhances confidence, particularly on complex or high-value projects where certainty and trust are essential.

In parallel, Roberto oversees internal practice operations, ensuring that CBD Architects continues to deliver high-quality outcomes while nurturing a culture of excellence, innovation and service.

A Focus on Sustainable and Passive Design

A cornerstone of Roberto’s design vision is a commitment to solar-passive and sustainable design principles, creating buildings that perform well year-round with reduced reliance on mechanical systems. This philosophy is evident in projects that respond thoughtfully to site, climate and environmental context.

For example, in the Bunker House in Esperance, a solar-passive residence designed under Roberto’s design leadership, the architecture nestles into the landscape while harnessing natural light and ventilation to enhance comfort and minimise energy usage. 

His sensitivity to context, materials and passive performance aligns with CBD Architects’ broader focus on sustainable architecture and enduring value. 

Design Impact Across Projects

Across residential and bespoke commercial work, Roberto’s design influence is visible in how spaces are shaped and sequenced. His focus on liveability, climatic intelligence and long-term performance translates into architecture that feels settled, purposeful and deeply attuned to the way people live.

From beachfront homes that invite the landscape in, to family residences that balance practicality with refinement, his portfolio reflects both design integrity and a thorough understanding of construction logic.

Leadership and Practice Development

As Principal, Roberto plays a strategic role in expanding the firm’s capabilities and reach. He champions a design methodology that is disciplined, transparent and client-oriented, while fostering team collaboration and professional growth within the studio.

Under his direction, CBD Architects continues to evolve as a practice that delivers comprehensive design services, from concept through contract administration, across residential, commercial and landscape architecture. 

A Personal Touch to Every Project

Clients who work with Roberto often note his attentive engagement, he listens deeply, translates client narratives into design priorities and ensures that decisions are both thoughtful and practical.

This human-centred approach reinforces CBD Architects’ design ethos: architecture should not only be aesthetically compelling, but also grounded in how people live, move and feel within their environments. 

Working with Roberto Forgione

Whether you’re embarking on a new home, renovation or bespoke architectural vision, Roberto brings:

• decades of design and industry experience

• a practical understanding of building design and project delivery

• a clear focus on sustainability and passive design strategies

• leadership in client communication and project oversight

Together with the broader CBD Architects team, he ensures that your design journey is collaborative, transparent and outcome-driven.

Enquire with CBD Architects to explore how Roberto’s leadership and design expertise can shape your next architectural project, from concept to completion with clarity, care and conviction.