Frequently Asked Questions
Questions and Answers about working with an Architect
For most people, a building project is a significant investment, and something you might only do once or twice in your lifetime. You will naturally have lots of questions about how it all works; we've tried to answer a few common ones here.
PAUA Architects is your first point of contact and trusted partner in the design and building process, from selecting a site and understanding your needs, all the way to project completion.
Getting Started
Where do I start?
Every project starts with a simple conversation.
You can contact us here, and we'll organise an initial meeting. We'll get to know each other, discuss what you want to achieve, and answer any questions you might have.
If you'd like to know more about the process, you can read more here.
When should I contact an Architect?
As soon as you're thinking about a new building project.
We can help you to understand the process, and answer your questions, even if you don't have a site or a clear brief yet.
An Architect should be your first point of contact, and trusted partner in the design and building process. All the way from selecting a site and understanding your needs, to project completion.
What happens in the first meeting?
The first meeting is about getting to know each other, understanding your needs, and answering your questions about how we'll work together.
After this, we will prepare a proposal outlining the process in more detail, and providing fees for the initial stages.
About PAUA
Who are PAUA Architects?
PAUA Architects is an award-winning architecture, urban design, and placemaking practice based in Hamilton – Kirikiriroa.
Our team includes Registered Architects, Architectural Designers, and Technicians. Our mission is to design remarkable environments that enrich lives every day.
Where do you work – what geographic area do you cover?
Our office is in Hamilton, and we work on projects across the greater Waikato area. The Waikato is our home, and we know it well, so we choose to focus our work here, rather than competing outside of our region.
As well as Hamilton and Cambridge, recent project locations include Raglan and Kawhia on the West coast; Whangamata, Waihi Beach and Thames on the Coromandel Peninsula; Lake Taupō and the Rotorua Lakes District; and a range of other towns across the region.
What types of projects does PAUA specialise in?
PAUA works across residential homes, commercial buildings and fitouts, civic and community projects, Te Ao Māori architecture, Urban Design and Masterplanning.
The team also has specialist capability in heritage architecture, sustainable design, adaptive reuse, feasibility studies, and project management.
Why work with PAUA?
Why PAUA Architects?
PAUA Architects has a strong track record of working collaboratively with our clients and other consultants to deliver architecture that is a creative and personal response to each client's brief, and to the specific character and context of the site and project.
What is it like to work with PAUA?
Collaboration is central to PAUA’s approach, with open and frank communication throughout the journey.
Our role is to be a facilitator of ideas; we hold the pencil, but it is our clients’ values, stories, and aspirations which shape each project.
Why work with an Architect?
Expertise: Registered Architects bring extensive knowledge in design, building technology, and the coordination of consultants and contractors.
Personalised design: An Architect helps you shape spaces that reflect your lifestyle and values. It is the ultimate opportunity to make your environment personal and purposeful.
Professional training: In New Zealand, Architects complete at least five years of education and gain significant practical experience before registration.
Project leadership: Your Architect manages the design process, coordinates other specialists, and collaborates with you and the builder to achieve the outcome you’ve dreamed of.
Value and cost control: While fees may be higher than a draftsperson or group home builder, an Architect can ultimately save you money by tailoring the design and by effectively managing costs during construction.
Can you help with budgets and costs?
It’s very important to have frank conversations about budget before starting design.
During preliminary design, PAUA recommends obtaining a preliminary cost estimate from a quantity surveyor. This check allows for changes to be made at an early stage, and helps avoid unwanted - and expensive - surprises later.
The team can also assist with feasibility studies to test options, construction costs, and business cases before committing to a full project.
How involved are you during construction?
PAUA continues to collaborate with you and your builder throughout the construction process. We add significant value during this phase and help to protect your investment and manage cost and quality risks.
As the professional with the most knowledge of your project and the design, your Architect is best placed to assist contractors in understanding design decisions, and to advocate in your best interest.
An effective relationship between client, architect, and builder, in our experience, leads to the best outcomes.
I've never worked with an Architect before - where do I start?
Every project starts with a simple conversation. We'll get to know each other, discuss what you want to achieve, and answer any questions you might have.
Following the first meeting, we'll prepare a proposal for you, outlining the process in more detail and providing fees for the initial stages.
You can also download 'Imagine', which helps to explain the process in more detail; or our New Home Guide.
“What struck us was PAUA’s intrinsic interest in working collaboratively with our School Management Team and the Proprietors Board through the project.”
Ken Williamson, Waikato Diocesan School for Girls, Proprietors Board
Download Imagine to find out more
Learn everything you'll need to know by downloading Imagine, our publication describing the architectural design process and explaining the experience of building a new house with PAUA Architects.
GET IN TOUCH
PAUA Architects
Sustainable Architecture Specialists
3 Anzac Parade,
Hamilton 3204
07 839 6521
OFFICE HOURS
8am-5pm Monday - Friday
