Vale Mark Ciesielski

Perth’s architecture community is mourning the loss of MJA Studio director Mark Ciesielski, who died this week aged 49.

Mr Ciesielski was one of three directors at the company, also known as McDonald Jones Architects.

He joined the Subiaco architecture firm in 2001 and became a director in 2007.

MJA Studio provided a statement following his death on Monday.

“On behalf of the MJA family, it is with broken hearts and utter devastation that we have the unfortunate task of letting you know that one of our beloved Directors, Mark Ciesielski, passed away on Monday (May 6),” the statement read.

“Mark was an irreplaceable friend, father, husband, son and colleague. His love of life was infectious, as was his entire character and persona.

“We are all deeply saddened, shocked and shattered.

“Mark was an architect of particular skill with an incredible knowledge of how buildings should come together and his influence on our projects and studio has been immense.”

Mr Ciesielski was active in the multi-residential space, designing Hesperia’s Victoria House adaptive reuse apartment project in Shenton Park, Mustera Property Group’s Forbes residences in Applecross, and Erben’s Mount Pleasant development Cirque Duet. 

His death sparked an outpouring of grief from the architecture community, with dozens of tributes posted on social media.

Hames Sharley expressed its “deepest sympathies” to the MJA team and Mr Ciesielski’s family.

Interior design firm MKDC sent its love to “everyone at MJA, Marks friends and family”.

“We have so many fond memories of Mark that we will treasure. He will be missed,” it stated.

Spaceagency architects sent its deep condolences to MJA Studio.

“This is such heartbreaking news,” the firm said.

Rothelowman Perth principal and Landgate chair Kylee Schoonens also shared her thoughts.

“Such tragic news. Sincerest condolences to the whole MJA team, Mark was an awesome person,” Ms Schoonens wrote.