72 | Creative solutions Around 80 per cent of Spotted Ink’s work is residential. Spotted Ink ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN T T Rosa Watson A Dunedin architectural design company is passionate about finding creative solutions for meeting the growing housing needs of the city while meeting the needs of clients. Spotted Ink has developed a client-centred approach that, rather than forcing a design on clients, keeps them at the front and centre. Owner Stef Chittock said Dunedin was a growing city, and with that its housing needs were changing. “As far as I can see at the moment it’s really positive and there’s lots of growth.” While there had been a slight drop off on new builds recently, the practice had been kept busy with other projects such as alterations and apartment developments. “We’re doing some really cool major alterations. We’ve been working on a couple of different apartment proposals as well.” A lot of research had been carried out into what housing was in demand in Dunedin and working out what each part of town needed, she said. It found that while people were happy to live in smaller homes, storage was a priority for a lot of people, along with car parking. She said higher density development was likely to be the future for New Zealand cities. “I guess we’re just catching up with the rest of the world around … where people are happy to live in smaller spaces. Which I don’t think is a bad thing. It’s just being creative with the space … (and) just making sure it’s functional.” Stef started the practice seven years ago, looking for something that would fit in with her family life. “It was an easy way to work the hours I wanted to and suit family life as I had young children. First, I was contracting to an architect and working on my own small projects, and as time has passed the business has grown.” The practice mainly covers Dunedin and the greater Otago area, with a few projects further afield. Stef and Devon Bell make up the Dunedin team, along with a part-time staff member and an architecture student joins them once a week. Around 80 per cent of its work was in residential, and this year there had been a marked increase in renovations, she said. “We’ve still had a few new houses coming on, so we’ve still got quite a good mix.” She said Spotted Ink set itself apart with its clear communication with clients and other consultants. “We have a strong team of consultants (engineers, builders, surveyors) that we all work well and efficiently with each other.” “Our approach is more what the client needs and wants. That it ticks all the boxes for the client. “Having a happy client that’s engaged in the process is a real buzz. That feedback’s really good. “When they are excited to invite you back and see it … that’s pretty cool too.” The future looked bright for the practice, she said. “We seem to be very steady, and the future seem bright and busy with new homes, and commercial projects.” Proudly Supporting Spotted Ink Residential | Commercial | Audio/Visual We are your Electricians TRUSTED admin@harrexelectrical.co.nz www.harrexelectrical.co.nz 03 777 3369 Ph: (03)4771133 E: mark@tlsurvey.co.nz www.tlsurvey.co.nz We provide a comprehensive service that includes all: • Land Survey Services • Building Setouts • Subdivision Engineering SurveyServices Phone: 03 983 5500 waterfordpress.co.nz Your Business, Your Industry, Your News. DO OUR READERS KNOW YOU EXIST?
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