72 | Good design based on good connection A recent highlight for him was working as architectural designer on the restoration of Rāpaki School, built in the 1870s as a Native School. Sketchlab Architecture T T Kim Newth ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN Christchurch-based Sketchlab Architecture offers a supportive, professional design service on residential and commercial architectural projects, with a clear and collaborative process from concept to completion. “Good design starts with a good conversation – that relationship with the client is of paramount importance,” says studio founder Stephen Keogh. Stephen originally trained as an architectural technician in Ireland, then spent some years gaining overseas experience in architecture and construction before moving to Christchurch in 2014 to contribute to the postquakes rebuild. “My preference, before even putting pen to paper, is to meet the client, talk to them and gain an understanding of who they are and how they live – it’s an essential step in the process towards creating a space that will suit their needs and their lifestyle.” Stephen has a wealth of experience in Canterbury. Before launching Sketchlab Architecture five years ago, he worked for another Christchurch design studio on a broad range of projects, from one of the city’s first modular hotels to numerous residential earthquake repairs and renovations. It gave him an excellent grounding in local building styles and changing industry practices in post-quake Christchurch. Today, as Sketchlab’s sole architectural designer, he leads his own projects as well as working in collaboration with other designers. “I also have good working relationships with builders, surveyors, geotechnical and structural engineers, so can provide guidance on the whole process if required. For the last couple of projects I’ve done, I assembled a full team for the client.” Sketchlab Architecture is known for modern design, favouring natural claddings and earthy brick and timber looks, supplemented with sturdy steel. The studio has a firm preference for low-maintenance products. Along with that taste for modern design, Stephen has a soft spot for heritage and older builds. A recent highlight for him was working as architectural designer on the restoration of Rāpaki School, built in the 1870s as a Native School. “During that restoration, it became apparent that to future-proof this building, everything would need to be upgraded. We kept as much of the original material as we could while also aligning new elements with the heritage fabric.” This special building now has a safer, less erosion-prone location and, following the respectful restoration, is well-equipped as a modern facility for local whānau, and as a community facility. Sometimes, the best design solution brings together a balance of old and new, as evidenced in another Sketchlab Architecture project involving an existing 90sqm bungalow in St Albans. Due to the home’s smaller interior spaces, the decision was made to renovate and add an extension at the property’s rear to allow for an ensuite and walk-in robe, and larger living spaces. The cedar-clad extension pays homage to the existing plaster bungalow, while also standing out in beautiful contrast to it. The owner is thrilled with the results and, in a testimonial, praised Stephen for making everything easy, honest and upfront. Sketchlab Architecture is well-experienced in commercial design, too, and recently delivered a design fit-out for a new yoga studio, OYF – Northlands. Working with both franchise guidelines and shopping mall requirements was a tricky challenge, but Stephen says good communication and discussion paved the way to a sensational end result. HIGH-QUALITY RESIDENTIAL HOMES AND RENOVATIONS IN CHRISTCHURCH, DELIVERED WITH CLEAR COMMUNICATION, PRECISION, AND RELIABLE WORKMANSHIP. SERVICES INCLUDE: • NEW HOME BUILDS • HOME RENOVATIONS & REBUILDS • PROJECT PLANNING & DELIVERY LICENSED BUILDING PRACTITIONERS Building confidence 027 418 7494 chris@cpbuild.co.nz BUILT TO PERFORM.
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