Archi Build

Every home tells a story before a single wall goes up, in the conversations, the site walks, the hundred small decisions that shape how a space will actually be lived in. That's where Archi Build starts.

We're Tom and Kelly Dupont, builder and designer, business partners, and the two people behind Archi Build.

Tom's spent two decades on building sites, from an apprenticeship in Timaru to major commercial projects across the South Island, to five years building some of London's most exacting homes, including the prestigious One Hyde Park development. Kelly brings a qualified eye for interior design and just as much time on-site as behind a desk.

We are well established in Wānaka, having both grown up holidaying here with our respective families since we were children. During this time we have watched the town change from its “Kiwi bach” roots into the architecture and construction majorly shaping it today. That long view of the place, and the people who build in it, is something we bring to every project.

We don't split neatly into “builder” and “designer”. We've built our own homes together, which means we've felt the process from both sides: the budget conversations, the late changes, the small details that make a build feel right. That's the lens we bring to every client's project.

Since founding Archi Build in Wānaka in 2017, we've completed over 50 builds across the region, each one shaped by the same partnership, craftsmanship and commitment we started with.

Outside of work, we're raising our son and making the most of everything Wānaka has to offer. Skiing, water sports, golf and fishing fill our time off, and it's this lifestyle, as much as the landscape, that we love building homes around.

New Home Builds:  Specialists in architectural new home construction and management, from foundation to finish.

Renovations & Extensions: Considered additions and reworks to existing homes and spaces, handles with the same attention & process as a new build.

Luxury Landscapes & Pools: Premium outdoor spaces. From luxury landscaping to pools, crafted with the same dedication as the home they surround.

Light Commercial Construction & Refurbishments: Purposeful builds delivered around a business.

Multi Unit Developments: Development built at scale, without losing the detail.

At Archi Build, every project is built on partnership, craftsmanship and commitment. We build bespoke architectural homes and renovations, from concept to completion, we remain detail-focused at every stage.

We are based in Wanaka and we work closely with you and your architect from the very first conversation through to final handover, because we know a strong working partnership is what elevates a considered design into a truly exceptional build.

Behind every project is a proud, professional team who enjoy a challenge and bring that same energy to every build, whatever the scale or complexity. We build using proven construction methods and quality materials, supported by a hand-picked network of subcontractors we've selected and trust to deliver to our standard, ensuring every client receives the same high standard of work, project after project.

We place equal importance on honesty, clear communication and integrity as we do on the build itself, and we take a genuine interest in understanding our clients and what matters to them, ensuring every home we build reflects the people it's for.

Having built many of our own homes and developments, we understand first-hand what the process truly requires. This experience, combined with our passion for the industry, drives us to deliver the best possible outcome for every client, and it shows: we've now proudly completed over 50+ builds in the Wānaka area with most of our work coming from referrals.

Family Values

Archi Build is a family-run business, and that shows in how we treat every client and every project. We build the way we'd want a home built for our own family, with honesty, care and attention to detail. When you work with us, you're not just another job on the books; you're treated like part of the family, from your first conversation with us right through to the day you get the keys.

Drive

At Archi Build, building isn't just what we do. It's what drives us. We're committed to staying current, creative and forward-thinking in everything we build. Our team shares that same drive; they're not just skilled tradespeople but genuinely invested in the industry and in doing great work. That passion shows up in the quality of every home we hand over.

Precision

We combine tried-and-tested construction methods with modern design thinking to create homes that are durable, functional and beautifully finished. We work only with trusted subcontractors and specialist suppliers we've personally vetted, so every material and every trade meets our standard, and yours.

Value

Innovation isn't just about how a home looks. It also shapes how we price. Our quotes are itemised, transparent and all-inclusive, because we don't believe great design has to come with a bloated price tag, or that a high price guarantees great design.

Transparency

You're welcome to arrange on-site any time to see progress for yourself. Regular site photos from your project manager, so you always know exactly where we are in terms of progress.

The Journey

We build relationships, not just houses. Getting to know you and what matters to you means we can shape both your home and your building experience around your needs. Backed by real experience and proven systems, we're committed to delivering a journey that's tailored to you every time.

Award Winning

We're proud of the recognition our work has earned across multiple awards, but more than that, we're proud of the team behind it. Recognition matters to us because our crew's craftsmanship deserves it, and it's proof to you that choosing Archi Build means your home will be built with genuine care, to a standard worth celebrating.

We work hand-in-hand with you, your architect, and your wider design team, from that very first conversation right through to handover. Our building expertise informs the design process early, ensuring your vision translates into a home that's both beautiful and buildable, every step of the way.

Initial Conversation

Contact Tom via phone, email, or our website enquiry form, and he'll be in touch to schedule an initial conversation, in person, by phone, or via Zoom. During this conversation, Tom will take the time to understand your vision, goals, budget, and timeframe. If you have a site but need recommendations for architects or designers, we're happy to refer great options to you.

Many of our past clients have been based outside of Wānaka, or overseas, and we've developed systems to work with clients and architects regardless of location.

This first conversation helps determine the best pathway forward and confirms whether we're the right fit to help achieve your goals and vision.

Site Visit & Project Brief

We meet with you on-site or via Zoom to walk through the details: the site, your design intent, and anything unique that will shape the build. This is where we start to really get to know your project.

Pricing & Scope Review

Based on your architect's plans to date, we prepare a preliminary estimate or detailed fixed-price proposal, along with a timeline. We believe in transparent pricing and straightforward communication, so you understand your costs early, know exactly what you're paying for, and never face surprises down the track.

Design Collaboration & Value Engineering.

At this step we work closely with clients, architects, and consultants to refine the design and align it with your budget. Our in-house quantity surveying expertise means we can find practical, cost-saving solutions, without compromising on design or quality.

Contract & Project Confirmation

Once we're aligned, we formalise everything, a clear contract and confirmed programme that gives you certainty around deliverables, timelines, communication, and responsibilities. It's about making sure you always know where things stand, right from the start.

Meet Your Build Team

Before work begins, we introduce you to your dedicated Project Manager and Site Foreman, so you always know who is overseeing your project day-to-day.

Construction Phase

Once construction begins, we keep you in the loop with weekly progress reports and photos, plus open communication throughout, so you're never left wondering how things are progressing.

Our experienced team and trusted subcontractor network bring exceptional workmanship and real attention to detail to every stage of the build.

Quality Control & Communication

We hold regular site meetings and internal inspections throughout the build, so every detail is checked and every aspect of your project is completed to a high standard. If decisions need to be made along the way, we stay ahead of them, keeping things moving without last-minute surprises.

Completion & Handover

Before we hand over the keys, we carry out a thorough final inspection, a professional clean inside and out, and make sure all compliance documentation is in order, so your home is fully prepared and ready to move into. Every last detail is completed to the standard you expect.

After Care Support

Following handover to your beautiful new home, we remain on hand and available to address any defects or maintenance queries, an ongoing commitment to you and your property that doesn't end when the keys do.