If you’re thinking about building, it’s time to talk to an architect. That might sound a bit early—especially if you haven’t bought land yet or don’t have a firm idea of the design—but early involvement is one of the best ways to avoid expensive mistakes later on.
Before you even buy the section
Engaging NB Architects before you purchase a site can be incredibly valuable. Not all sites are created equal, and the wrong section can end up limiting your design options or blowing the budget once earthworks and compliance are factored in. An early consult can help you:
- Assess site constraints such as slope, sun, access, and outlook
- Understand what’s likely to be allowed under the District Plan
- Work out whether your wish list suits the section
- Budget for any additional site work or services
We’ve had clients come in with sections already purchased, only to find out it’s going to cost far more than expected to make it work. A short conversation with us beforehand might have saved them a lot of stress and money.
Aligning your ideas with what’s possible
If you’ve already got a site, getting your architect involved early can still help clarify what’s possible and get the design process started on the right foot. Many of our clients arrive at the first meeting with Pinterest boards, clippings, or sketches of what they like. That’s a great start—but we’ll also talk through what’s practical, what fits your budget, and what suits the site.
We don’t expect you to have all the answers. Our role is to guide you through the process, help you figure out what you actually need and want, and ensure the design ticks all the right boxes—functionally, financially, and aesthetically.
The risk of leaving it too late
Some people hold off engaging an architect until after they’ve spoken to builders or tried drafting up ideas themselves. While well-intentioned, this can lead to wasted time and backtracking. Builders can’t price what hasn’t been properly designed. And early concepts that haven’t considered orientation, setbacks, or planning rules may have to be reworked completely.
That’s why NB Architects prefer to be part of the conversation from the beginning. Even a one-hour chat early on can give you clarity about the next steps, help avoid costly detours, and set you up for a much smoother project overall.
Helping you get the brief right
Another benefit of early engagement is getting your project brief right. Most people only build one or two homes in their lifetime—it’s not always easy to know what to include or how to prioritise. We’ll help you think through:
- Current lifestyle and future plans
- How much space you really need
- Site-specific design opportunities
- Local compliance and resource consent issues
We also raise practical considerations that are easy to overlook—like vehicle turning circles, privacy, outdoor space usability, and low-maintenance materials—so your home doesn’t just look great, but lives well too.
When in doubt, ask
There’s no downside to getting architectural advice early. Even if you’re not ready to start designing yet, a preliminary meeting can help shape your thinking and give you confidence that you’re on the right track.
At NB Architects, we’re happy to meet informally to talk through your ideas, look at your section (or potential sections), and give an honest view on what’s possible. It’s one of the most valuable hours you’ll spend in your entire building journey.