architectural design
Architectural Design for Homes, Businesses, and Communities
Designing with Purpose, Building for the Future.
At Taiao Architecture and Engineering, we specialise in architectural design that is aesthetic, sustainable, and practical to construct. Based in Northland, Whangarei and Auckland and working across New Zealand, we collaborate with homeowners, developers, and project teams to deliver spaces that are efficient, functional, and beautiful – from contemporary homes to commercial and industrial buildings.
Residential Architecture
We create homes that reflect how people live today – and how they want to live tomorrow. Whether you're building new or renovating, we design with flow, volume, and sustainability in mind.
Flow: Seamless connection between spaces for practical, everyday living.
Volume: Light-filled, open areas that feel expansive without excess.
Sustainable Materials: Prioritising natural, durable materials that reduce environmental impact.
Commercial & Industrial Design
We design functional commercial and industrial spaces that work for both business operations and the people who use them. From offices and retail spaces to warehouses and workshops, our architecture combines usability, regulatory compliance, and sustainability. We ensure every design is tailored to site-specific needs, with careful consideration of workflow, accessibility, and long-term performance.
Integrated Architecture & Engineering
Our point of difference is our in-house collaboration between architects and engineers. We provide full-service solutions – ensuring designs are not only beautiful but structurally and environmentally sound from the outset. Whether working independently or in collaboration with your architect or builder, we ensure a seamless design-to-construction process.
Why Choose Taiao for Architectural Design?
Sustainable by DesignEvery design is grounded in environmental awareness, material efficiency, and a long-term view.
In-House Engineering ExpertiseOur collaboration with structural, civil, and geotechnical engineers ensures buildability is baked into every concept.
Tailored to YouWe take the time to understand how you live, work, and interact with space so that the design feels truly personal.
Experience Across Project TypesFrom residential renovations to large-scale industrial builds, we adapt our approach to suit your goals.
Featured Project – Hihitahi Dreaming
This award-worthy architectural build is one of our proudest accomplishments. Hihitahi Dreaming is a striking three-storey holiday home located on a steep, challenging site in Paihia, Bay of Islands.
The home’s innovative design makes full use of natural light and expansive views, with each level stepping gracefully down the hillside to meet the land.
Taiao provided both architectural and engineering design services on this project, overcoming complex site conditions with creativity and technical excellence. The build features a carefully considered palette of natural materials - including Magnum Board cladding from Health Based Building, a durable, non-toxic solution, as well as natural wood, masonry, concrete, stone, and earth. These materials were selected to create a healthy indoor environment while complementing the home’s rugged natural setting.
It stands as a true example of our integrated, sustainable approach.
Watch the video below to see how Hihitahi Dreaming came to life.
Explore Earth Building & Natural Design
We also specialise in earth building and natural architecture, including rammed earth and sustainable timber construction. These approaches allow us to create homes that are healthy, breathable, and in harmony with their surroundings.
Interested in Rammed Earth or Natural Materials?
Discover our Earth Building & Natural Design services – where architecture meets nature.
Our Process
From Vision to Completion - Seamless, Collaborative, and Built to Last.
At Taiao Architecture and Engineering, our process brings together architects, designers, and engineers under one roof to deliver cohesive, sustainable solutions. Whether you're building a home, developing land, or needing technical reports, we guide you through each stage with clarity and care.
"Highly recommended. Taiao Architecture and Engineering have provided us with Engineering services for a number of architectural projects; thorough and careful that are also creative problem solvers and are great to work with."
"Really appreciate your help with this one. Very enjoyable working with you. Hope to do many more."
"Thanks for all your mahi on this one."
"We have been working with Nev over the last few years. During that time Nev has provided great engineering design solutions for a range of projects, and helped keep the design practical and cost effective for the situation. I highly recommend Nev as a design partner."
Let's Design Something Remarkable
Whether you're planning a residential retreat or a commercial project, Taiao Architecture and Engineering brings creative vision and technical expertise to every build.
Get in touch today to start your design journey.
