Geoffrey E. Summerhayes was a third-generation architect. A key figure in the development of Western Australian architecture in the second half of the twentieth century.

Initially, Summerhayes was renowned for his modernist white box, glass houses, which reflect the influences of his USA experience while at Princeton University and case study houses of the west coast. He retained an interest in residential architecture and interior design throughout his career.

His architectural legacy spanned 60 years. Commercial projects featured prominently in the office portfolio during the 1960s and 1970s, receiving local and national recognition for highly accomplished modern architecture.