WHAT WE DO
We are Wairarapa's leading architecture firm specialising in bespoke lifestyle projects including new houses, winery restaurants & tourism developments
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At Aspect Architecture we are passionate about the Wairarapa and the landscape we live in. We believe that architecture is a synthesis of social, environmental and architectural qualities .
We enjoy working closely with clients to create innovative solutions that draw inspiration from the landscape and local built environment.
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​Aspect Architecture offers a full architectural service from conceptual design ideas, through to consent documentation and contract observation and administration. We are able to be involved in all stages of the design and construction process.
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Our familiarity with the local environment and proven experience working with local councils and construction firms means you get the best advice and best design solution for your needs.
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We love to keep it local and work throughout the Wairarapa - including Martinborough, Greytown, Featherston, Carterton, and Masterton.
WHO WE ARE
Victoria Read
director
Qualifications:
Registered Architect, B.Arch (Hons), B.Com (Tourism)
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Why Victoria chose to work in architecture:
I am passionate about contributing positively to our built environment – architecture is about people and I really enjoy working collaboratively through the complexities of a project towards a successful outcome.
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Inspiration:
I am inspired by the New Zealand landscape. I am inspired by architecture that reflects the natural and cultural environment and adds to the built landscape in a positive way.
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Favorite building:
Kastrup Sea Bath in Denmark – a perfect example of architecture that reflects the built history and natural landscape in a modern and innovative way
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Interests outside of work:
Travel, spending time with family and friends, walking, photography and yoga
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Katie Gunn
lead designer
Qualifications:
Bachelor of Architectural Studies - Architecture
Bachelor of Arts - Art History & Media Studies
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Why Katie chose to work in architecture:
I love the built form, how we intersect with it, how it interacts with the environment and how we can create, manipulate and facilitate great architecture that enhances lives and the world. If I boil it right down it is because I am passionate about good design.
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Inspiration:
Inspiration is everywhere, in the weather worn baches on Wairarapa's wild coasts to the hi-tech highly efficient new office buildings of Wellington. The timber structures of Scandinavia to the small and minimal, yet perfectly proportioned houses of Japan.
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Favorite building:
I adore Todd Saunders Fogo Island artist retreats. I find Peter Zumphor's St. Benedict Chapel. so inspiring for its ability to be modern yet reflect the traditions it comes from. Closer to home I love the hut inspirations of many NZ baches, including the Cardron Hut by RTA Studio and the Hut on Sleds by Crossan Architects.
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Interests outside of work:
Wellness is a big part of my life outside of Architecture. My spare time is filled with exercise, cooking, getting outdoors - skiing in Winter and camping in Summer - drinking good wine with friends and most of all spending time with family.
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Stefan Beconcini
lead designer
Qualifications:
B.Arch (Hons), B.socSc
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Why Stefan chose to work in architecture:
I really enjoy the creative process of designing and interpreting the client's aspirations, it energises me and motivates me, I love the challenge of every project and the opportunity to innovate. I'm passionate about architecture, beautifully crafted design and sustainability. I believe that the role of architecture is enhance the human condition and truly contribute to wellness.
Inspiration:
I am inspired the landscape, the beauty of natural materials and how humans inhabit the space. My aim is to design spaces with soul that foster wellness and feel great.
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Favorite building:
So many it's hard to choose one...I love Scandinavian and Japanese architecture, the way they use natural materials & how they beautifully craft them to create incredible spaces that perfectly fit with the natural surroundings really inspires me.
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Interests outside of work:
Spending time with family and friends, kiteboarding, surfing and cooking a good Italian meal for the people I love.
Sarah Cheethem
interior architecture specialist
Qualifications:
MIA (Masters in Interior Architecture)
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Why Sarah chose to work in architecture:
I loved the mix of practicality and design flair that architecture has about it. The choice to delve into Interior Architecture comes from this challenge of having an existing space to design within and how you can best utilise the space to create something extraordinary.
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Inspiration:
Being able to create a connection with clients and transform their ideas into spaces which ooze personality and quality.
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Favorite building:
Convent de Sant Francesc / David Closes
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Interests outside of work:
Exercising, travelling, cooking for family and friends, upcycling furniture, and playing with my two dogs
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Steve Brown
architectural technologist
Qualifications:
Diploma in Architectural Technology
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Why Steve chose to work in architecture:
I had always had an interest in design and architecture and drew my first house plans in my early teens. I was always involved in the building industry and retrained as an Architectural Technologist as an adult student.
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Inspiration:
I am inspired by a range of architecture from turn of the century villas to the modern buildings of today. I thrive on helping clients realise their dreams with buildings which are highly creative and also functional and comfortable to use.
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Favorite building:
Fallingwater - I had the opportunity to visit this amazing building by Frank Lloyd Wright in Pennsylvania in 2016.
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Interests outside of work:
Travelling and visiting architecturally significant buildings, Building furniture from New Zealand's amazing recycled native timbers, sports and hanging out with our family pets.
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