Upon graduating with distinction in design in 1994 from the University of Cape Town, Sean joined Jack Barnett Architects before heading to London and the United States for the next 11 years. His project experience ranges from dealing with the finer intricacies of museum architecture in a 13th century Welsh castle, with its heritage importance, display and lighting; to the running of multiple high-rise residential condominiums in the USA. Drawing upon the experience gained in the UK and USA, Sean J Mackay Architects was founded in 2006 upon returning to Cape Town.