80 | Thriving on variety Projects have extended across an extensive array of contexts. Cube Architecture T T Sue Russell “It’s the sheer variety and challenge each project brings that we thrive on,” ARCHITECTURE Mt Maunganui-based Cube Architecture is led by Matt Allen, who, along with two colleagues, likes nothing more than the challenge of bringing the visions and aspirations of their clients to life. The studio was established in 2020, following Matt’s decision to step out on his own. Prior to that, Matt had worked for several firms, gaining valuable experience. “Those formative years were important, but I lacked job satisfaction. I’m passionate about working on projects I genuinely enjoy and believe in, and that wasn’t happening consistently enough, so I made the decision to establish on my own and worked for about six months before others came on board. We’re small, and I’m happy with this as I want very much to remain hands-on.” Matt says his journey with drawing and design started when he was very young. Having visited the architectural office of a friend’s father, Matt was fascinated by the drawing process – how shapes and forms could be carefully arranged on a plan and transformed into a living solution. “That moment really stuck with me, and from then on I was hooked. I never looked at any other career options. Architecture was always the goal.” And since its founding, Cube Architecture has gone from strength to strength on the back of building strong relationships with developers and construction companies. “Best of all, we achieved our five-year goal of working on projects we truly care about, and along the way have won several design awards and built a great team. Personally, I feel incredibly proud of how far we’ve come,” Matt says. Projects have extended across an extensive array of contexts, from breathing new life into a refurbished soda factory in Whakatane by transforming it into a thoughtfully designed, shared office space, commercial builds, a multi-use shopping centre, and a 72-unit retirement village in Pyes Pa, to name a few. “It’s the sheer variety and challenge each project brings that we thrive on,” says Matt. “We’re a very collaborative team and we like nothing better than to offer inspiration to our clients. I always try to think about how people move through and use a space, leaning on experience to arrive at the best solution.” For Matt, great architecture is about creating spaces that feel they are meant to be there – spaces that are thoughtfully resolved for the end user. Understanding that everyone lives and works differently underpins each design brief. “Often, it feels like we’re designing to a personality rather than a brief.” Matt says his intention always was to remain small, not wanting to overstretch and lose the connection to projects is central to how Cube approaches each project. “And the diversity keeps things interesting, and challenges Nate, Roman and me creatively.” The design process leans heavily on collective experience to help the client think ‘outside the box’. Sometimes, the conversation begins with a Pinterest board or a bunch of photos of the things the client likes. “We always try to put ideas in front of our clients that they may not have considered,” says Matt. “Strangely, we quite like it when a client tells us they don’t like an idea in front of them because that helps us create the concept for them.” This year has got off to a fine start and is looking strong for Cube Architecture, with several projects under construction, including a three-level Quest hotel in Havelock North, extensions to a warehouse building in Palmerston North, and multiple industrial buildings in Tauriko and Rangiuru. For Matt, good architecture always brings real value – not just financially, but socially and environmentally. “Over the past decade, the market has increasingly recognised the value of thoughtful design,” he says. “While construction costs may be slightly higher when prioritising strong aesthetics and considered detailing, that investment often translates into stronger long-term value and better market outcomes.” Matt says Cube Architecture and the work it undertakes is exactly where and what he wants to be doing. “From that moment of inspiration when I was very young, I’ve never deviated from the plan that ultimately I would have my own studio, creating wonderful design for my clients and always adding value.” Your reliable and trusted Main Contractor, proud to partner with Cube Architecture. We deliver exceptional quality projects across the Commercial, Industrial, Residential and Fitout sectors. iline.co.nz Offering design services in both structural and civil engineering projects, you can rest assured our team will look after you and your project engineering needs, delivering you an impressive result. 4 Willow Street, Tauranga, NZ +64 (7) 578 8071 admin@sed.nz www.sed.nz
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