Architectural design for Nelson, Tasman and Marlborough.
Areas we design in
Nelson · Richmond · Motueka · Māpua · Kaiteriteri · Golden Bay · Blenheim · Picton · Marlborough Sounds
Why Archco in Nelson
Sun-responsive design
In some of the sunniest parts of the country, controlling heat matters as much as capturing it. We use eaves, shading and orientation so homes stay comfortable year-round.
Coastal and off-grid know-how
Coastal materials, off-grid servicing and lightweight construction for remote sites, as at Sladdens Bush and Lake Ōhau.
Close to Christchurch
Nelson and Blenheim are a short flight from our studio, making regular collaboration easy.
Work that travels
We design for sites across New Zealand, and the approach is the same wherever the land is: start with the landscape, the climate and the way you want to live. A few recent homes show how that plays out.
Local planning
Planning and building in Nelson
Three councils
Nelson City, Tasman District and Marlborough District each have their own plan. In Marlborough, the Marlborough Environment Plan sets the rules for building and coastal areas.
Slope, flood and coastal hazards
Recent severe weather has highlighted slope and flood risks across the region. We coordinate geotechnical and hazard advice early so your design is resilient.
Sounds and remote sites
Sites accessed by boat or long rural roads need design and materials suited to transport and staged construction.
As featured in
03 questions
Questions we're often asked
Do you design homes in Nelson and Marlborough?
Yes. We work across Nelson, Tasman and Marlborough from our Christchurch studio, with site visits at key stages.
Can you design a remote or off-grid home?
Yes. Sladdens Bush in the Oxford Hills is fully off-grid, with solar power, rainwater collection and timber piles that tread lightly on the land.
Do you work with local builders?
Yes. We work with your chosen builder and can help you run a tender.
Contact
Start your Nelson project.
Phone
03 928 3983Meeting us
We visit Top of the South sites at key design and construction milestones.
Getting to your site
Nelson and Blenheim are each around an hour's flight from Christchurch.