Accessing architecture: a different design approach

Architecturally designed homes are coveted by many, yet not everyone can afford the price tag that comes along with bespoke home design. This is the nut that Artis Homes sought to crack. How to change the standard architectural business model so that the use of an experienced architect or designer is affordable to more homeowners? And how to inject some fun into a process that is often fraught and serious? 

Artis Homes is a sister company to Box* -  a business that has designed and built architectural homes since 2009. To increase affordability for architectural builds, they use a system of patterns or a modular design system. Artis Homes has taken many learnings from Box to create a unique design and build service that promises to make beautifully designed homes more affordable and accessible.

We spoke with Artis Homes Design Lead Laura McLeod on all things modular design; why we’ve seen a surge in demand for compact living;  Artis’ key difference; and why affordability is so important in their design process.

Artis Homes is brought to life by a collective of architects, designers, estimators, and builders. With this extensive team of experts working together, clients can be assured they’ll be catered to at every step of the build journey. With a unique modular design methodology, Artis provides the economy of a pre-designed plan but with the flexibility of a bespoke architectural home. 

“Our combination of modular design with traditional building methods means that we have the flexibility to ensure the layout is the best for the site and the client,” says Laura. 

"It's like a pick and mix of architectural elements that have been custom-designed but also designed in a modular way where all these elements can slot together efficiently and cost effectively."

The true end-to-end service is a rarity, allowing clients to collaborate closely with the Artis Homes' team throughout the design and build process, knowing that one company is responsible for the quality and success of the project.

“As well as being conscious of the space and the cost, we prioritise design quality. We've focused on simplifying the whole design and build process so that it's as easy as possible for the clients, but we also try to inject fun as much as possible. We've created a really interactive design process."

“Clients get to work with an architect or experienced designer throughout the process rather than a salesperson, and still for a more affordable design fee."

“New Zealand is becoming increasingly connected internationally, and with that, we’re seeing a mindset shift in construction. Many people are used to living in smaller spaces abroad, compared to the traditional sprawling units in New Zealand,” says Laura. 

The construction industry is one of the most significant contributors to greenhouse gas emissions, and people are more conscious of leaving a small footprint. Building a smaller footprint is a good way of achieving that.

“Construction costs have also jumped in the last few years, so budget is a huge factor,” shares Laura. “But all in all, we’ve found that people just want a simple, cosy lifestyle with less maintenance. They also want the flexibility to travel, do other things they enjoy, and make the most of what land they've got - this is where building smaller is better.”

The modular designs of Artis incorporate inspiration from local and overseas trends combined with analysis of successful designs from previous builds from the architectural team’s experience at Box.

A modular design system allows for a wide variety of design options to suit individual preferences and needs. From contemporary designs to traditional styles, homeowners can choose from various colour schemes, finishes, and features to create their dream home.

"We tap into the entire team at Box; we've got builders, quantity surveyors and designers working together to ensure we reach the best solution for what the clients want.”

 “Our design method allows us to ensure we have the best layout and position of the house on the site, with flexibility to move windows and connections to the outdoors, factoring in views, sunlight and access. We consider all this along with  the client's brief as we play with the Artis blocks on the site plan together.”

Laura says the key to a successful collaboration is listening carefully to clients.” Homeowners come along with different moments in a home that are important to them. We’ve built a library of design features that can be incorporated into Artis homes to capture some of these moments, including built-in banquette seating for family meals, kitchen pass-through window to barbeque area, elevated ceilings and feature wall linings."

Affordability is a term often heard in the building arena, and also one of the most important factors when embarking on the home design journey. Artis Homes has a transparent approach throughout the build process, another benefit of their unique, approachable design and construction. 

“We had many people come to Box over the years, and they wanted to work with an architect, but they just couldn't afford the design fees on top of the cost of the house,” says Laura. 

“We're transparent about the costs from the get-go because we want the process to be as smooth and enjoyable as possible. Ultimately, clients have control of where they want to splash out or where they want to save costs.”

Artis aims to give their clients a clear indication of the total project cost, considering not only the construction costs but also council consent fees and any other consultants that may be required. 

“Plus, we'll recommend a contingency, which we like to call the ‘fudge factor’, because there are always unpredictable elements, and we want to prepare our clients as best we can.”

Artis Homes’ close collaboration with their clients throughout the process minimises the risk of costly errors. “We have learned so much from our Box design and builds over the past 15 years. We've tried and tested design details, ensuring we're being as efficient as possible; we're using the simplest detailing possible to deliver the same high-quality finish. We can also tap into Box's relationships with suppliers and on-site subcontractors.”

Artis’ focus on simplicity, beauty and affordability in the design and throughout the entire process is key to their success - “ And that's what we're aiming to deliver.”

Talk with the Artis team about crafting your dream home on ArchiPro.

*Box is a registered trademark