Architectural Design Services in Kapiti & Horowhenua
Complete Design, Documentation & Consent Support From Concept to Completion
At Alan Craig Design, we provide a comprehensive architectural design service for residential and light commercial projects across Kapiti and Horowhenua, NZ. From initial ideas through to completed documentation and consent approvals, we guide you through every stage of your building journey with clarity, experience, and practical advice. With decades of industry experience and LBP (Licensed Building Practitioner) Design 2 accreditation, you can trust that your project is in capable hands.
New Home Design
Designing a new home is an exciting opportunity to create a space that reflects your lifestyle, site, and future plans. We design homes ranging from compact single-storey dwellings to expansive double-storey residences with multiple cladding types and architectural detailing. Whether you prefer a traditional aesthetic, contemporary lines, or a rural lifestyle design, we tailor the outcome to suit your vision and budget. Our process includes:
- Initial consultation and site assessment
- Concept design development
- Design refinement and material selection guidance
- Detailed working drawings
Every home is designed to maximise functionality, natural light, and long-term livability.
Additions & Alterations
Outgrowing your current home doesn’t always mean moving. A well-designed addition or alteration can completely transform how your space works. We carefully assess your existing structure and design additions that integrate seamlessly with the original building. From extra bedrooms and expanded living areas to reconfigured layouts, we focus on enhancing both practicality and value. Our goal is to ensure the new work complements the existing home — structurally, aesthetically, and financially.
Renovations
Renovations offer the chance to modernise and improve comfort while retaining the character of your property. We design:
- Kitchen and bathroom upgrades
- Interior reconfigurations
- Garage conversions
- Decks and outdoor living spaces
- Swimming pool area developments
We consider structural implications, council requirements, and construction feasibility from the outset to avoid costly surprises later.
Innovative & Specialist Builds
Alan Craig Design has experience working on unique and alternative construction methods, including:
- EarthShip homes (rammed earth tyre wall systems)
- SIPS (Structurally Insulated Panels) homes
- Polystyrene block wall systems
These projects require careful planning and technical understanding, ensuring they meet both design expectations and regulatory standards.
Light Commercial Projects
In addition to residential work, we undertake small-scale light commercial projects. These projects require a clear understanding of compliance, accessibility, and building regulations — all managed with the same attention to detail as our residential work.
Resource & Building Consents
Navigating council requirements can be one of the most complex parts of any building project. We provide full documentation and coordination for:
- Resource consents
- Building consents
- Detailed working drawings
- Technical specifications
By preparing accurate, compliant documentation, we help streamline the approval process and minimise delays.
Where necessary, a specialist Planning Consultant would be required for large and or complex Resource Consent applications.
Design Philosophy
Every project begins with listening. We take the time to understand your goals, ideas, and practical needs. From there, we refine layouts, suggest improvements, and explore alternative materials or configurations that enhance the final outcome. Our role is not only to design what you ask for — but to improve it through experience, insight, and attention to detail.
Frequently Asked Questions
How early should I contact a designer?
It’s best to engage a designer as early as possible — even before purchasing land, if possible. Early involvement ensures site considerations, orientation, and council requirements are factored in from the beginning.
Do you handle council consents?
Yes. We prepare the required drawings and documentation for both resource and building consents and coordinate submissions to the relevant council.
What areas do you service?
We work throughout Kapiti and Horowhenua, including areas from Palmerston North to Wellington and surrounding districts.
Can you work with my builder?
Absolutely. We collaborate with your chosen builder or can recommend experienced professionals. Clear communication between designer and builder is essential for a smooth project.
Do you only design new homes?
We design new homes, additions, alterations, renovations, garages, decks, pool areas, and light commercial projects.
What is an LBP Design 2 qualification?
LBP stands for Licensed Building Practitioner. Design 2 licensing allows us to design residential buildings up to a defined complexity level, giving you confidence that your project meets regulatory standards.
Can you design energy-efficient or alternative homes?
Yes. We have experience with SIPS homes, EarthShip concepts, and other alternative construction systems. We also consider insulation, orientation, and material selection to improve energy efficiency.
How long does the design process take?
Timeframes vary depending on project complexity, council requirements, and design revisions. Smaller projects may take a few weeks, while new homes can take several months from concept to consent-ready documentation.
design proposals & Enquiries
If you’re planning a new build, renovation, or extension in Kapiti or Horowhenua, Alan Craig Design offers the experience, technical knowledge, and personalised service to help bring your project to life.