90 | Makers of Architecture ARCHITECTURE HEATING KIWI HOMES SINCE 2008 WWW.LHZ.CO.NZ 0800723426 • German Electric Radiators • Colour options available • No boiler, No pipework, No maintenance • Silent Operation • Fully controllable via smart phone Integrating the digital with design The Wellington-based studio has developed work across New Zealand. T T Russell Fredric Makers of Architecture has grown into a practice delivering design-led projects through an integrated model spanning concept, fabrication and build. Founded by Beth Cameron, Jae Warrander and Grant Douglas, the studio began as an extension of academic exploration into how digital tools could improve the way buildings are designed and constructed. This early focus on accuracy and efficiency remains central, but the business has since broadened into a more comprehensive offering, Beth says. “Makers began as a continuation of university research over a decade ago, exploring how digital technologies could improve construction accuracy, efficiency and sustainability, ultimately making architectural builds more attainable.” The Wellington-based studio has developed work across New Zealand, with projects in locations from Queenstown to Northland, while the capital’s varied terrain and dense urban fabric have played a defining role in shaping its approach. “Wellington is wonderfully diverse, and every project presents its own set of site-specific challenges,” Beth says. “These constraints demand clarity in decision-making – everything needs to be considered early to deliver highly resolved solutions.” This response to place is supported by a strong digital workflow, with modelling and virtual reality tools used to test ideas and communicate outcomes. It reflects a wider philosophy where material, structure and construction are considered together rather than in sequence. The approach led to the establishment of Makers Fabrication – a move that has become central to how the business operates. What began as a practical solution to access advanced manufacturing capability has evolved into a key Makers offering and identity. “Makers Fabrication was born from necessity. We invested in our own CNC machine, which led to creating a dedicated workshop and team to deliver the projects we were designing. This integration also supports collaborations with other architects and clients,” says Beth. “Our fabrication workshop combines digital manufacturing with skilled craft, producing everything from panelised building components to highly bespoke joinery and sculptural elements.” While residential work remains a strong focus, the studio maintains a broad project mix. Current work includes standalone homes, renovations, commercial fit-outs and its own multi-residential development, Tahi – a seven-townhouse project on Wellington’s city fringe. Clients are increasingly seeking homes that prioritise long-term performance and lifestyle outcomes, rather than surface-level design, and this shift is influencing how projects are planned and resolved, with greater attention to durability, adaptability and wellbeing. “There’s a clear shift towards homes that support wellbeing, resilience and sustainability. Clients are thinking carefully about light, health, material quality, and how spaces will adapt over time.” Across both architecture and fabrication, the team structure plays a key role in delivering this level of detail. +64 21 777 941 info@lunos.co.nz BALANCED HEAT RECOVERY SYSTEMS Quiet, energy-efficient ventilation designed for New Zealand homes. Contact us:
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