Intuitive and precise mapping for clear communication

Mapcraft is the studio of Bendigo based landscape architect Brendan Bartlett, specialising in the production of custom and purpose-driven maps.

Clear graphic and spatial communication is Brenn's specialty, with 20+ years experience at the graphic end of landscape architecture, site surveying, mapping design and visual presentation.

Quality maps are a powerful tool; empowering users to easily find a location, cut through clutter, navigate and present a site in the best possible way, and can greatly simplify comprehension of complex spatial information.

Approach

My work is always purpose-driven.

What is the core information that needs to be delivered?

How can it most effectively be communicated, interpreted and digested by the user?

This is where we begin.

A non-exhaustive list of relevant clients and applications include:

Maps for private landowners and businesses
Real estate and property development marketing maps and plans
Maps and graphic production for government departments
Geographic data for graphic designers and wayfinding specialists
Presentation drawings for town planners and engineers
Clear visual presentations for public consultation and exhibition
Maps for community groups
Sporting facility maps and golf course layouts
Maps for recreation reserves, campgrounds and caravan parks
School and campus maps
Maps of public facilities, cemetries and showgrounds
Shopping centre maps
Tourism maps and networks
Maps of wineries, farms and orchards
Historical trail maps
Accessibility and mobility maps
Maps for special events and markets
Locality maps

All my maps, drawings and graphics are entirely human-generated with precision and accuracy.

I utilise a variety of techniques, software and specialty equipment from different fields including QGIS, AutoCAD, Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and survey equipment including Total Station. I also have in-house colour printing facilities to A1 size.

For most situations, I have the capability to produce quality maps from scratch, gathering and preparing my own spatial data.

I am however also well-positioned to interpret and translate complex engineering, architectural and land survey plans into beautiful presentation drawings.

I have extensive experience in graphic design as well, and can provide graphic designers with maps and spatial information in formats they can work with for signage, wayfinding and marketing purposes.

I pride myself on always producing drawings that are clear, accessable and easy-to-read.

Brenn Bartlett

Brendan Francis Bartlett

Bachelor of Landscape Architecture – University of Melbourne

Registered Landscape Architect – Australian Institute of Landscape Architects

I essentially grew up in a civil engineering practice. There was zero boundary between the home and the business, and I was a kid answering the phone, dealing with clients, and learning far more than I realised.

Dad did his own feature surveys, and from a very young age I was a survey assistant. I won't say what age as I was probably far too young to be on construction sites. Doesn't seem that long ago, but times were different.

I studied landscape architecture, worked for a couple of well-established firms in Melbourne, became an AILA Registered Landscape Architect and started my own practice back in my hometown of Bendigo in 2005. Yes, with zero boundary between home and business. How did that happen..?!

This has morphed into Mapcraft. I've taken a component of that work that I've always leaned into, and focused on it.

I've mapped and planned all sorts of things. The most interesting has probably been mapping a historic ghost town locating ruins and former significant sites, and a cemetery. Both of these were really worthwhile projects to ensure the information is documented and available for future generations.

Concurrently, I've done freelance graphic design since school days. I co-founded a record label in the early 2000's where I was the 'design guy', designing plenty of album covers. Since then I would've designed hundreds of gig posters, all sorts of printed material, signage and objects.

These skills, and an understanding of how to distil and visually communicate information clearly, are my strengths. If this is the sort of thing you are after, make contact below. I look forward to hearing from you!