“We’ve always done it this way.”
— someone once said.
We’re not going to list a few nouns just to make you (and us) feel good.
What matters to us 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.
Designing for Everyone
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.
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!
What Our Clients Say
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![New home design in Clyde, Central Otago, designed by the team at Candela Arkitektur — architects, draughtsmen, and residential designers based in 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 Arkitektur — architects, draughtsmen, and residential designers based in 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 Arkitektur — architects, draughtsmen, and residential designers based in 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
Our Approach
Step 1.
Journey, Discovery & Feasibility
Step 2.
Detailed Design & Documentation
Step 3.
Implementation & Construction
Further Detail
Journey, Discovery & Feasibility
Our journey always begins with a conversation... We aim to get to know each other, understand your needs, and realistic resources to enable a successful outcome. Site Analysis: Once we have worked together to create a brief, we conduct a site analysis. We investigate your site thoroughly to understand the opportunities and constraints to tailor your design to your specific site and individual requirements. Concept Design: This is where we put pen to paper, and start our exploration to answer your briefing requirements. We present and discuss everything from the conceptual floor plans, building form and landscaped elements. Initial Costing: At this point, we consult a Quantity Surveyor to ensure the project aligns both with your needs, and budget requirements. Here, we always have levers to pull to ensure a successful and feasible project before moving into the detailed design phase of the project.
Detailed Design & Documentation
This is where we achieve any consents in order to realise your concept design…. Resource Consent: Depending on your project scope and site conditions. Sometimes resource consent is required. We will consult with an expert planner, other consultants as necessary, and the council to achieve resource consent for your project. Developed Design: Here we establish the project team necessary to obtain building consent. For example, if a structural engineer is required, we will obtain a fee proposal for your consideration. Detailed Design: At this stage, we meticulously prepare your drawings and supporting documents for the building consent process. Our team is passionate about design, and we take a holistic approach to transform the interior of your home. We ensure that any custom elements, such as inbuilt furniture, are seamlessly integrated into the overall fabric of your space. If you have a specific style in mind, we are more than happy to collaborate with your chosen interior designer to bring your vision to life. Building Consent: As we reach another significant milestone, we collate all the drawings and documentation necessary for submission to the council. The result of this phase is a robust set of drawings and successfully obtaining the building consent.
Implementation & Construction
You have consented plans, it’s time to select your construction team… Contractor Procurement: During this phase, we collaborate closely with you to facilitate a formal tender process, ensuring fairness and accurate pricing for the scope of your project. Our goal is to help you secure a suitable contractor. However, we understand that different projects may require different approaches to contractor selection. With our expertise and knowledge, we are here to guide you in exploring various methods and assist you in choosing the most suitable approach based on your unique situation. Contract Formation: For all building projects, except very small ones, a contract is essential. Our preferred choice is NZS3910, an industry-recognised construction contract developed by Standards NZ. We can customise this contract to align with your specific requirements, ensuring that the construction phase is meticulously managed. Contract Administration: At this stage, we work to assist the build at each step of the way. Our goal is to ensure quality and a smooth journey towards Practical Completion when your building is handed over from the construction team to you.
Contact us
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