| 103 T T Kim Newth Architects ‘there for you’ Architects bring design flair to projects. Photo: Samuel Hartnett Felicity Brenchley Architects ARCHITECTURE For those embarking on a new home project, it can be difficult to weigh up the pros and cons of working with an architect or architectural designer versus building off a set plan. Even for an award-winning architect like Auckland’s Felicity Brenchley, whose professional experience spans more than 18 years, there is no definitive answer as to which is best. “For me personally, I think it depends on the project,” she says. “For some people, going off a plan will very much be the right choice because it is overall more cost effective and if you’re with a group housing company there will be bulk discounts. I genuinely think there’s a place for everyone in the market. “What I would say though is choose wisely and choose someone you can trust – and if you can afford to go down the architectural route, then do so because there are a raft of benefits in that. Even if you don’t plan to use an architect, I’d still recommend getting some independent design advice at the beginning of your project.” Building trust with clients through honest, open communication is at the heart of Felicity’s own approach. Since establishing her practice in 2013 – Felicity Brenchley Architects – she has completed many bespoke design projects for her clients, ranging from beautiful new homes to transformational renovations and extensions. As well as bringing design flair to projects and building a good experience through effective communication, Felicity says architects and architectural designers play another very important role by being there for clients and serving as their representative. “An architect is there for you, on your team, representing you with consultants, council and builder and will help you through the process. Without that independent person, it can be a more difficult process. “Architects will work with the site, work with the client’s requirements, work with budgets to get the design right. They can also help with finding the best builder for the project.” A printmaker as well as an architect, Felicity pays close attention to the materials palette, colour and texture. In 2022, she won a Resene Total Colour Residential Interior Colour Maestro Award for her project, Titirangi Mid-Century. Her most recent project is her own house in Warkworth. Recently featured on Grand Designs, it further showcases her considered approach to materiality, colour and texture. The single-level home is on a steeply sloping site, nestled into the landscape overlooking Mahurangi Harbour. “It’s open to the views and has been designed with sustainability in mind – not just in terms of thermal efficiency but also in terms of waste reduction in construction and using locally sourced, natural materials.” While the majority of her projects are in Auckland and north of the city, Felicity works for clients throughout Aotearoa New Zealand and even has an exciting new project starting in Samoa. As the co-founder of ĀKAU Studio, Felicity is making a wider impact, too. This not-for-profit organisation is seeking to create positive change in communities with projects designed in collaboration with young people. Last year, ĀKAU Studio received the New Zealand Institute of Architects’ 2023 John Sutherland Practice Award that celebrates excellence and innovation in the practice of architecture. “Architects will work with the site, work with the client’s requirements, work with budgets to get the design right. “ 021 123 1013 www.footingsand loors.co.nz We o er a wide range of products for both residential and commercial projects. • Longrun Roofing • Metal Tiles • Rainwater Systems • Insulated Panels • Metal Fencing • Purlins, Girts & Tophats • Composite Tray Flooring • PV Solar Solutions T: 09 444 1813 E: orders.ns@metalcraftroofing.co.nz www.metalcraftroofing.co.nz PLUMBING GAS DRAINAGE CIVIL 09 945 3840 accounts@benmayneplumbing.co.nz
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NDc2Mzg=