Archco is a studio based architectural design practice

We are a balance of technical perfection, elegant artistry and cutting-edge design. Our goal is to make sure the services we offer are the best in the industry, and we stick with our core beliefs and values.

Our services range from concept design, of both interior and exterior spaces through to all technical aspects of the build. We will also assist with project management and administration and paperwork throughout construction. All of our designs are important to us, and we like to ensure that our design is realised in the completed build, not just handed off to be built elsewhere. We’ll tailor our level of support to our customers needs and wants. We take a collaborative approach to every build, taking into account our clients budget, site and their needs and ideas, and creating beautiful builds.

At the core of our team are Gareth Ritchie and James Davidson, both established designers with a diverse portfolio of work and a strong track record of award winning designs. With experience behind them, they are supported by a strong team with a breadth of experience across the industry.

 

Our Philosophy

Our philosophy centres around four core values: innovation, sustainability, creativity and appropriateness.

Innovation

We believe that buildings go far beyond functionality. Intuitive design combined with an analytical approach can allow us to innovate within our design process. Every project is a puzzle, with its own constraints and challenges.

Collaborating with our clients allows us to create a unique response to every project. Ensuring we get an innovative and unique interpretation of the clients brief.

Creativity

Buildings are designed for people. Designed for a place, and a time, to engage with people and evoke emotions that draw people to the buildings. Incorporating this thinking allows us to be creative with our design.

We work with our clients to understand what they want the space to be, and how it needs to work, and then from here we explore all of the options, going beyond the normal, to create a solution that is unique.

Appropriateness

Every build has a function, whether it is a home or a commercial space, it sits in context. When we design, we take into account the purpose of each room, the space around it, and ensure that our design is appropriate for the space.

The land plays a large role in determining what is appropriate. Our experience means that we have a strong understanding of what will work, and what won’t, and where a design may lose functionality due to its location.

We work with our clients from concept to completion to ensure that we create a design that serves its purpose.

Sustainability

From planning to concept design, we seek to create spaces that work with the land around them. Spaces that don’t take from the earth, but work with it and incorporate sustainable elements wherever possible in the build. We aim for every project to become a marker for the owner that communicates well within its environment, benefitting both current and future generations.

This encompasses many elements, ensuring that we can create spaces that maximise use of sustainable materials, while also working to ensure our houses are energy efficient.

Archco worked with us to design the home of our dreams. It felt like we worked as one team and the end product was incredible.

Awards & Mentions

 

 

Every project that we take on is unique, requiring new ways of thinking and requiring us to draw on our knowledge. We are immensely proud of the work that we have created over the years, and the results that we have created for our clients.

We’re always looking to push ourselves, and strive for more. Creating designs that are a flawless combination of beauty and function. Throughout the years, we’ve been privileged enough to be recognised for this in our industry. Some of our notable awards and honourable mentions can be found below.

AWARDS

National Award – Glenstrae – 2022 ADNZ Resene Architectural Design Awards – Residential New Home Between 150m2 and 300m2 Architectural Design Award

Regional Award – Glenstrae – 2022 ADNZ Resene Architectural Design Awards – Residential New Home Between 150m2 and 300m2 Architectural Design Award

Commended Award – Sladdens Bush – 2022 ADNZ Resene Architectural Design Awards – Residential Compact New Home up to 150m2 Architectural Design Award

PUBLICATIONS

2022
Defign Magazine 2022 – Glenstrae House

2020
Home Magazine – Belmont Kitchen (Elegant Warmth)