Background
About Christopher Larcos
Solicitor & Architect
Christopher Larcos occupies a rare position at the intersection of architecture and law — a dual-qualified professional whose career spans more than four decades in the construction industry.
He commenced his architectural career in 1978 while undertaking part-time studies (later completed at what is now the University of Technology Sydney), and has been a registered architect since 1987. He is a Fellow of the Australian Institute of Architects (FRAIA).
Christopher completed his law degree in 2001 and was admitted to practice in 2002. In nearly 25 years in legal practice, he has developed a specialist focus on construction law, commercial contracting, and dispute resolution.
He has also served as New South Wales Editor of the Building and Construction Law Journal and is an adjudicator under security of payment legislation in New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia, Western Australia, and the Australian Capital Territory.
Architectural Foundations
Christopher’s professional journey began in architectural practice, where he developed a strong grounding in the design, documentation, and delivery of construction projects.
Over more than three decades in architecture, he was involved in projects across a range of sectors, gaining first-hand experience in the practical realities of procurement, contract administration, and project delivery.
This background continues to inform his approach to construction law, providing an understanding of how contracts operate in practice.
Transition to Law
Christopher’s transition into law was a natural extension of his work in architecture, where contractual and procurement issues are central to project delivery.
After completing his law degree in 2001 and being admitted in 2002, he developed a practice focused on construction law and commercial contracting, building on his existing industry knowledge.
This dual background enables him to approach legal issues with a practical perspective, particularly in relation to contract drafting, risk allocation, and dispute resolution.
Career Milestones
Christopher’s legal career has included experience in both private practice and advisory roles, with a focus on construction and infrastructure projects.
He has advised on contract drafting and negotiation, tendering processes, and dispute resolution, including matters arising under security of payment legislation.
In addition to his practice, he has contributed to the profession through teaching in the Practice of Architecture Learning Series (PALS), through service on the Practice Committee of the Australian Institute of Architects, and involvement in the Senior Counsellor Service.
A Unique Perspective
Christopher’s combined experience in architecture and law provides a perspective that is uncommon in the construction industry.
He brings an understanding of both the legal framework governing construction projects and the practical realities of how those projects are procured and delivered.
This allows him to identify and address issues that may not be apparent from a purely legal or purely technical viewpoint, and to develop solutions that are both legally sound and practically workable.
Practice Today
Christopher’s current work focuses on construction contracts, particularly in relation to ABIC agreements and front-end project structuring.
He is the author of a suite of Special Conditions for ABIC contracts, developed to address recurring issues in construction projects, including payment structures and compliance with NSW residential building legislation.
He also acts as an adjudicator under security of payment legislation in multiple Australian jurisdictions, providing ongoing insight into the operation of statutory payment regimes and the types of disputes that arise in practice.
In addition, he is available on a limited basis to provide advisory services in relation to construction contracts and related matters.