How did you get started in this industry?

I went straight from school to Auckland University to study Architecture. I was deciding between Fine Arts or Architecture and I chose architecture as I loved art, making things and woodwork as a kid and I thought it would be good to have a career that incorporated these passions. Open Home TV was a television show I loved when growing up - it focused on Architecture and had homeowners being interviewed which gave me the idea of architecture as a career option.

What’s your favourite thing about your job? 

Seeing projects on site! I get a real buzz when you see things in your head being built and coming to life. This is also one of the reasons we stay on board during the construction phase. I love working as a team with the builder, confirming all the little details that create a cohesive feel to the building, which are so important to ensure the finished product looks amazing.

How did you hear about Houzz and Houzz Pro?

When I set up my company in 2016, Houzz wasn’t particularly big in Auckland at that point. One of my friends mentioned that I should look at it and I set up my profile. In the first year of business I received a number of projects which was great when establishing my business. Once I was more established I used the references from the initial projects from Houzz - which are so important when people are looking for an architect. 

How long have you been a member? 

Since 2016 as an organic user. In 2018 I joined as a Houzz Pro member.

What do you want people to know about your business? 

We offer a ‘Needs and Options Review’ as an upfront initial service for clients who want to do a new build or renovation but don’t know where to start. It is a great service which gives homeowners an idea of what’s possible on their site, what the planning rules are and what they might be able to achieve with their budget. People really like this as they don’t have to jump into a big commitment before they know what it’s like to work with us or what the process is. It also helps to work out whether we are compatible to work together and answers a lot of questions for them before we begin the design work.

What have been your most successful methods for marketing your business?

We have found Houzz incredibly helpful. Offering the initial upfront service to people has also been successful as it takes away the fear of jumping into the unknown. Referrals from other architects and referrals from builders is also a great source of new business. 

Tell us about one of your favourite projects on your Houzz profile and why you love it.

Piha which was our first project, which was set on a very complex site. This project set up the parameters on how we design compact well designed spaces. The site was in an area of natural importance, so we were only allowed a very small percentage of site coverage which was a challenge and there were restrictions on the materials we could use. 

Tell us about a recent project that came about thanks to Houzz Pro?

The Bridge Street project is on the most compact site we have worked on, made more tricky as it was a triangular and sloping! The type of zoning of it though, means we can do quite a tall three level home and we managed to design a fully complying scheme. 

Rothesay Bay House was completed a year ago. We have also converted at least three new houses with a number of renovations!

What’s your favourite feature about Houzz Pro software?

I like that people have the ability to send messages directly and I can access this instantly on the Houzz App on my phone. I can see it and respond straight away!

What positive changes have you seen as a result of using the Houzz Pro features?

It has definitely impacted the number of enquiries I receive and the quality of the enquiries.

What’s the best piece of advice you could give to someone signing up to Houzz?

To get as many reviews as you can! 

What do you do to set your business apart from the competition?

The level of personalised service we offer, which you can see from our four Best of Houzz Service Award.

Quick-fire 5…

Key to success in business is... Perseverance.

Good design is... Should appear effortless.

Our style is… Elegant and playful.

Our design hero is... Rick Joy.

Best bit about our job is... Creative challenge.

 Best piece of advice I received is… There is a solution to every problem and sometimes a challenge in a project can result in a better design.