Client Stories
At Foundry Architecture, we love turning our clients' dreams into amazing spaces with our creative designs and teamwork. Check out our client stories to see how we tackled different challenges and helped bring their projects to life. From brainstorming ideas to adding the finishing touches, we’re all about making sure each project really captures our clients' vision. Come along and explore the incredible journeys we've taken with our clients and the awesome results we've achieved together!
Turning a Vision into a Community
It all started with a recommendation. The owners of an expansive property approached a builder with the idea of subdividing, and that builder recommended us – Foundry Architecture – to help bring their vision to life. What began as a single renovation project turned into something far greater: a series of six thoughtfully designed homes, each contributing to the character of an emerging community.
Our initial involvement was to assist with updating the existing house on the property, setting the tone for what was to come. The client was in the early stages of planning the subdivision, and they needed an architectural designer to help refine their vision for the property. Working together, we reimagined the existing dwelling, bringing fresh life to it while respecting its origins.
From there, our work expanded. We were asked to design the property owners' personal home on one of the newly created eight sections. This bespoke home needed to balance comfort, elegance, and an appreciation for the surrounding environment. We leveraged our expertise in 3D modeling, drone-assisted site analysis, and rendering to help the client visualize their dream and turn it into a detailed plan.
Just as the design for their personal home neared completion, we were brought back on board to design two more homes within the subdivision. The goal here was clear: these homes needed to be sympathetic in design to the original concepts, economical to build, and yet maintain a simple elegance that would resonate with future buyers or renters. Working closely with the builder and keeping the lines of communication open with all parties, we crafted homes that felt harmonious with the surroundings and each other.
Soon the builder themselves asked us to design their own home on one of the other sections that they had purchased. With a similar design philosophy in mind—sympathetic yet distinctive—we completed their vision as well. Today, we're working on yet another home for the original client, focused once more on the subtle balance of unique style and economic viability, with the same dedication to community-focused design.
Through collaboration, clear communication, and creative use of technology, we have had the privilege of shaping six of the eight sections within this subdivision. From one small renovation to a collective of bespoke, stylish homes—this project exemplifies how thoughtful architectural design can transform a vision into a cohesive, thriving community.
Turning Challenges into a Dream Home
This project began with a casual conversation that quickly turned into a meaningful journey. An acquaintance shared their struggles with a property that seemed almost impossible to develop. With steep, narrow access, cultural sensitivities due to a nearby Māori Pā, and historic kūmara pits, they were feeling overwhelmed. A transportable home seemed like the only option, but at $420,000 for a basic 100 square meter house, it wasn't an ideal fit.
After visiting the property, we took a close look at an old microwave station that they hoped to convert into a home. It didn’t take long to see that the mixed construction of concrete and asbestos cladding made renovation far too costly and risky. So, we pivoted. We envisioned something new: a home that embraced the character of the site without breaking the bank.
The property had its charms—stunning views to the north and south—but the steep driveway access added complexity. With a budget of $400,000, the clients hoped for a spacious, three-bedroom home with personal touches like tiled showers—features that weren’t offered in the transportable home option.
We got to work, designing a 158 square meter home that emphasized both quality and affordability. Respecting the cultural significance of the site, we consulted with local iwi and worked closely with council to ensure everything proceeded smoothly. We even managed the tender process, securing the best mix of price and quality for our clients. Our in-house drone technology helped us map the terrain, pinpointing key features and potential challenges so we could make the most of the property’s natural beauty.
The result? A beautiful 158 square meter home that came in at just $385,000—well under budget. Not only did the clients get a larger home than they expected, but they also got higher-quality finishes that elevated the entire space. With help from our trusted network of consultants, we navigated the complexities of resource consents and engineering, turning a challenging property into a stunning, functional home. We didn’t just build a house—we helped bring a vision to life, proving that with the right approach, even the toughest challenges can lead to beautiful results.