We’re not going to list a few nouns just to make you, and us, feel good.
What matters is our commitment to each and every project. Whether we’re at the drawing board, on-site covered in dust, or deep in conversation with you about the smallest of details.
Architecture isn’t just our work; it’s woven into how we see and shape the world around us.
The things that matter
Designing for You
Our approach is built on open conversation. We don’t design for you; we design with you. You’re an integral part of the process, shaping the decisions and direction.
Together, we create a place that feels truly yours; a home shaped around how you live, what matters to you, and where you feel most at ease.
We see architecture as a way to help people live better. That means taking care with every decision, for everyone we work with and the community around us. If there’s a chance to make life feel a little easier, brighter, or more connected through design, we’re all in.
Ollie O'Shea
B.Arch, M.Arch[Prof], LBP Design
Growing up in rural Southland, making and building were part of everyday life. After nearly a decade in Wellington, and a couple of years across the ditch, we moved back south with our two daughters. It felt right to return to the lifestyle and landscapes we missed, including plenty of time in Central Otago.
Candela Architecture was formed with a simple goal: to make good design more accessible. While great homes can, they certainly don’t need to cost the earth. Even on a modest budget, thoughtful design will add real value. Whether it’s a new build, alteration, or extension. We bring care, experience, and rigour to enable you to gain the most from your site and create a home that feels distinctly yours.
What Our Clients Say
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![New home design in Clyde, Central Otago. Designed by the team at Candela Architecture working across Queenstown, Wanaka, Cromwell, Alexandra, and Invercargill.]()
“Thank you, Ollie, for transforming our vision into a concrete reality that we cannot wait to see materialise.”
S & J Tither
Threefold House
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![New home design in Cromwell, Central Otago. Designed by the team at Candela Architecture working across Queenstown, Wanaka, Cromwell, Alexandra, and Invercargill.]()
“We had a fair idea of what we wanted for our place. I've spent years working on custom builds. So we were pretty stoked with how Ollie pulled all our ideas together into something that just worked.”
K Dyer
Cromwell Cottage
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![Architectural floor plan of a home renovation design in Invercargill. Designed by the team at Candela Architecture working across Queenstown, Wanaka, Cromwell, Alexandra, and Invercargill..]()
“Candela Architecture really transformed our place and we couldn’t be happier. We would definitely recommend them to anyone thinking about reconfiguring their home.”
T & M Rodger
New Plymouth Alteration/Extension
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![New home design in Earnscleugh, Central Otago, designed by the team at Candela Arkitektur — architects, draughtsmen, and residential designers based in Queenstown, Wanaka, Cromwell, Alexandra, and Invercargill.]()
“We’re absolutely thrilled with the design, especially considering how tight the site is. Seeing the house come to life as it’s being built has been incredibly exciting!”
David
Churchyard House
“We’ve always done it this way.”
— someone once said.
Our Approach
Step 1.
Journey & Discovery
Step 2.
Detailed Design & Documentation
Step 3.
Implementation & Construction
Candela Architecture
It all begins with an idea. Maybe it’s a dream home you’ve carried for years. Perhaps a vision for how you want to live. Whatever the spark. We are here to help you get it right!
Contact us
Interested in working together? Fill out some info and we will be in touch shortly. We can’t wait to hear from you!