86 | Partnership has point of difference The design of this 417sqm home was inspired by American ranch-style architecture. Inspired Architecture T T Karen Phelps ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN A newly formed architectural design partnership is offering its clients a distinct point of difference by combining decades of individual experience with a very personal approach. Inspired Architecture was launched in 2024 when Colin Dawson and Patrice Palmer joined forces. “We have complementary skillsets and want to keep our business small scale and client-centred to offer our clients a personal service,” says Colin. As a Licensed Building Practitioner and Professional Member of Architectural Designers New Zealand, Colin holds a National Diploma in Architectural Technology and previously operated under the name Dawson Design since 2007. Patrice brings a valuable business background to the practice, holding a New Zealand Diploma in Business and is currently studying towards a New Zealand Diploma in Architectural Technology. The pair’s professional relationship extends back several years as Patrice previously worked for Colin before they decided to establish their partnership. This blend of technical expertise and business acumen has created a practice that delivers both creative design solutions and practical commercial understanding resulting in repeat clientele. “One aspect that sets Inspired Architecture apart is its attention to detail in documentation,” says Colin. The practice has earned particular praise from builders and contractors for the quality and thoroughness of its plans. “Our ethos is to design with buildability in mind,” says Colin, “so a lot of focus is put on drawing very detailed plans that make building easy.” This philosophy is exemplified in a current project in Maunu, Whangarei, where Colin has designed a 417 square metre home inspired by American ranch-style architecture. This is a project that demonstrates how the practice of listening carefully to client briefs contributes to delivering practical, well-considered solutions. “There has been a lot of thought go into this project. The design process was very collaborative,” says Colin. The home incorporates a self-contained one-bedroom flat for an elderly mother. The separate accommodation includes independent living facilities with accessibility features such as wide doorways and a spacious bathroom, plus space for a garden and a single garage. The main residence features three bedrooms, an office, an ensuite, main bathroom and guest toilet, with open-plan living, dining and kitchen areas. A portico graces the entranceway giving the home a grandiose vibe and the property includes a swimming pool, double garage and workshop. The exterior will be clad in a mix of Axon vertical panel, Linea horizontal panel and schist stone cladding. The practice’s collaborative approach extends across its diverse portfolio, which currently includes papakainga projects and houses for a client’s subdivision up north. “We’re always led by our clients and it’s about teamwork. This is particularly important on papakainga projects, which are very collaborative, and keeping to budget is incredibly important along with delivering maximum bang for buck,” explains Colin. Inspired Architecture provides comprehensive services from concept plans through to working drawings, and lodges Building Consent applications on behalf of clients. The practice also maintains a network of reputable engineers, consultants and sub-contractors to support projects as required. It works on projects New Zealand wide and internationally and Colin is present working on projects in Tennessee and Alberta, Canada. The company is a member of Architectural Designers New Zealand (ADNZ), providing additional assurance of professional standards and expertise. P: 021 410 428 | E: info@abfoundations.co.nz | www.abfoundations.co.nz Foundation Experts That Builders Trust RibRaft | X-Pod | Concrete Block | Shed Slabs Delivered Fast. Measured Right. No Blowouts. No Delays. Proudly serving Whangārei and Northland 100% New Zealand owned company. We are a friendly, dedicated team; and it is our mission to give the best service to our customers. We have a leading position in the New Zealand asphalt shingle roofing market through a commitment to ensuring your experiences with us are seamless, with qualified roofing professionals and first class products. NZ’s exclusive distributor of PABCO’s range of product 0800 261 116 | 09 636 7051 | info@asphaltshingle.co.nz | 1D Tainui Road St John's Auckland 1072 | www.asphaltshingle.co.nz
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