Patrick Coombes

Using his undergraduate qualifications in architecture, Pat started out working for a design & construct firm. This taught him the importance of pragmatic design that facilitates efficient construction. In other words, he learnt that time and money matters. He also learnt the value of building strong relationships with clients, councils, contractors and other stakeholders.

Pat pivoted from architecture when he realised the potential of planning to bring together so many different disciplines, ideas and systems. The environment, human settlements and culture.

After obtaining post-graduate qualifications in planning, Pat began working for a prominent Victorian planning/built environment consultancy. This was a varied role where he prepared a wide range of planning applications and facilitated statutory planning assessments. He carefully analysed built form and landscape impacts, as well as providing design input for urban renewal and placemaking projects.

Pat is a considered person. He is analytical, has a quiet confidence and uses an economy of words that is powerful.

This comes in part from his love of reading – history, politics, philosophy, architecture, environment. It also means he is great writer who was put to preparing statements of expert evidence on planning and urban design matters early on.

A cross-state professional with a design-eye and a great turn of phrase, Pat is a skilled operator within URPS’ development team.