66 | Stephan Meijer Architecture T T Kim Newth Clever eco-conscious design solutions The MSK building is a simplistic, modern, business design. ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN Based in Motueka and covering Nelson, Marlborough and Tasman, Stephan Meijer Architecture is a well-established design practice where passive solar and eco design principles are routinely applied to all house projects. Having trained and worked as an architect in both the Netherlands and Australia, Stephan’s practice is rooted in fine European design as well as modern antipodean urban architecture. Over the past 20 years, he has completed a diverse range of new home projects from modern passive solar homes, crafted luxury retreats and rural eco homes to inner city apartments. He also enjoys the challenges that come with renovating, upgrading and transforming older homes for modern living. For Stephan, every client is unique. He takes the time to understand their unique set of requirements, along with the site. Those who may have already bought a section in Nelson-Tasman can arrange a free site meeting with Stephan to discuss options for their project. Alternatively, he can assess a site before purchase to deliver clarity on potential risks or issues. “New Zealand has a big diversity of building sites from flat land to sloping hills or the middle of town,” says Stephan. “What might work in one place will not work well in another. Fundamental to successful outcomes is that every design has to be site appropriate. I have a lot of experience in designing high end homes for challenging hill sites in Nelson. “Of course, with high interest rates and rising building costs, budget is also a central consideration for every project.” Growth projections for Nelson-Tasman over the 2021-2031 period predict an increase of nearly 10,000 people for the combined districts. Inevitably, population growth is driving intensification in the housing market and Stephan is also noticing an increasing appetite for multi-functional design as people adapt to changing times. “I have done a lot of projects for older homeowners where they are wanting to create a second self-contained dwelling within the same building that could be let out as holiday accommodation or used as a place for friends and family to stay.” Stephan has also been involved in a number of eco community design projects, such as a retreat centre, farm and community development in Golden Bay. An existing 180-hectare farm is being reorganised to provide multiple land-based business and work opportunities, along with small dwellings, units and a communal services building. “It is all about sharing resources within a community and allowing a lot of people to live and work on the land. There will be a variety of dwellings, including tiny homes, which will be site appropriate for different parts of the farm. From a rural zoning perspective, it’s really pushing the boundaries, but consent has been granted. The Council has been very supportive as they can see the need for cheaper housing and for projects that look after the land. Part of this project will involve regenerating riverbanks on the farm property. Stephan has long had a passion for passive solar design and designing sustainably for comfort and quality.
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