Embracing Design Practice

From small scale pavilion installations to large multi-unit developments, digital design technologies are radically shaping new avenues of design in architecture.     Imagine being able to seamlessly collaborate between designers, clients, iwis, artists, consultants, and the council; produce designs without having to ‘draw’ a single line; undertake multiple design explorations in a fraction of […]

Collaborative Luxury

CoLab Architecture proved itself the superlative choice to design the three luxury homes on the stunning site vacated by historic Parkdale. CoLab Director Tobin Smith designed styles complementary to the outcomes the developers sought for this very distinct niche and, as the name over the door suggests, collaborative work is a specialty.     The […]

Big plans for redevelopment

The appointment of Weir Architecture to transform the Hereford Street office block that once housed Scorpio books into a stylish boutique hotel, assures Christchurch of a delicious treat to be sampled in around 18 months. National Award Architectural winner in 2019 for The Crown Plaza Christchurch project, Weir Architecture has stunning plans for the building […]

The story of an icon

Christchurch’s proud tradition of exceptional public architecture is evident in one of the city’s favourite buildings – the Christchurch Town Hall.     Playing prestigious host to numerous celebrations, concerts and civic events over the years, the building once described as the city’s ‘public living room’ reopened triumphantly in 2019 after a successful campaign for […]

Designing beautiful spaces

To celebrate their new Christchurch studio, Ignite Architects hosted clients and industry partners at their innovative Sudima Laneway home.   At the event, Ignite commissioned local artist Mario Luz to create a live art work for a charity auction, with proceeds going to the Laura Fergusson Trust Canterbury. The studio is part of a mixed-use […]

Approaching alterations: Linetype Architectural

Having recently received a National Award at the 2019 ADNZ Resene Architectural Design Awards in the Additions and Alterations Category, I thought it timely to share a few thoughts on my approach to altering houses. Often there is already a good amount of dollar value in the existing house, so one needs to be careful […]

It’s all in the detail: Davinia Sutton

Multi award-winning Christchurch designer Davinia Sutton’s stunning kitchen and bathroom projects for two Canterbury homes were recognised at the recent 2019 National Kitchen and Bathroom Association Awards (NKBA) New Zealand, where she was also named 2019 Designer of the Year.     Held in Melbourne, Davinia Sutton of Detail by Davinia Sutton attained 12 awards […]

Real lives behind the architecture: Allfrey + South

From the outside, the practice of architecture may seem a little formal. Architect Craig South, of Allfrey + South Architects, says greater openness can change perceptions and promote positive outcomes.     When I first started out in this industry more than 20 years ago, I’m sure I would have thought that creative skills alone […]

Canterbury designers take a bow

Six out of the 10 award-winning projects at the 2019 ADNZ Resene Architectural Design Awards, one of New Zealand’s most prestigious architecture awards, are by Christchurch designers. 145 entries were received from some of the most talented designers across the country. The awards were held on Friday 18 October in Queenstown.     The Christchurch […]

Sustainability in architecture: Allfrey + South

With interest growing in sustainable lifestyles, we caught up with architect Craig South of Allfrey + South Architects for his thoughts on the role architecture has to play in the sustainability equation.       Sustainability means different things to different people. As an architect, what does sustainability mean to you? I think we all […]