Arqis Design Studio

Bespoke Architectural Services from Concept to Completion

Arqis is a boutique Architectural Design Studio, catering to all design needs.Specializing in creating a wide range of residential projects, from multi-story, multi-unit developments to bespoke, intimate homes.Each design is crafted with a focus on solar efficiency and security, ensuring sustainable and safe living spaces. The expertise extends to every detail, including custom-designed furniture that complements the unique style and functionality of each home.

The Process

The whole process of Designing and Building your own Home can, at first seem quite daunting. Breaking the process down gives a clearer vision allowing you to focus attention on the finer details. The order of Items you may need to consider:

  • The Brief

  • $$$ Budget

  • Concept Design

  • Developed Design including Engineering

  • Building Permits

  • Details - Selection of materials & Interior fit-outs

  • Consultants - For a list to consider, please ask.

  • Tender to builders

  • Building Contract

  • The Build including Project Management

  • Punchlist Items

  • Build Sign off

The Design Brief

This is arguably the most creative aspect of any project. All decisions filter from the direction set at this fundamental stage. A brief can be a well-crafted wish list or selections of images and loose thoughts.It is important that you communicate the things that are important to you, whether it is sun, openness or a second sink in the scullery, and that you finish this phase of the project feeling understood. I want to know what you like!Time spent on the brief is typically proportional to the scope of the project. Think about how much you are comfortable spending and what the limits are there. Knowing this will go a long way to helping inform the extent of the building works.Questions:

  • Have you collected any reference images? Pinterest?

  • Do you know your budget?

  • What aspects of the project are you willing to compromise on?

  • What parts of the project are essential?

  • Is timing an important consideration for this project?

The Budget

I often hear prospective clients ask as to ‘how much per square meter?’ to build their home. The answers are never straight forward because each project is different in regard to complexity and the variables that constitute a build cost.What is essential early on, is that the total project budget is decided and understood. The project budget is the sum of all aspects involved in the scope of the project and is ideally set as part of the brief.Write a list of the spaces you want in your home/alteration. Give me tips on how you live, tell me what style suits you. As a quick overview, project budget items may include:

  • Design fees

  • Consultancy fees

  • Local authority charges &compliance fees

  • Build costs

  • Client purchases

  • Accommodation

  • External contract works

  • Contingency sums

For more information about any of the build process, please get in touch to arrange a meet and we can discuss your needs further. I look forward to hearing from you. Contact me here.

This Section is under development. Please leave a message and I will inform you when it is updated. Many Thanks!! :)

Documentation Portfolio

This collection features previously completed documentation for various architects & clients in New Zealand. All drawings adhere to the stringent NZ Building Codes. Due to copyright restrictions, access to this area is restricted. To gain access, please email me directly... [email protected]