about us
We are Wairarapa's leading architecture firm specialising in bespoke lifestyle projects including new houses, winery restaurants & tourism developments
At Aspect Architecture we are passionate about the Wairarapa and the landscape we live in. Our design reflects the philosophy of "ko au te whenua, te whenua ko au" - I am the land, the land is me.
We believe that architecture is a way of making life better. We have a strong interest in sustainability, wellness and well-being and this is reflected in our design.
We enjoy working closely with clients to create innovative solutions that draw inspiration from the landscape and local built environment.
Our familiarity with the local environment and proven experience working with local councils and construction firms means you get the best advice and best design solution for your needs.
We love to keep it local and work throughout the Wairarapa - including Martinborough, Greytown, Featherston, Carterton, and Masterton.
our SERVICES
Consultation
Gain professional advice on concept direction and idea development, budgeting and costs, planning and development, timelines and more
Feasibility studies
Our needs and options review will help you avoid project pitfalls and uncover opportunities.
You will be able to understand the challenges and constraints facing your project and will give you a good foundation to proceed with your design work
Design Services
From conceptual design to consent documentation we offer the full architectural service. We will manage this process for you right through until consent is granted.
Project Management
We can help with pricing the build and establishing the contract. We have several options for involvement in the contract administration and observation of the construction process.
OUR team
Victoria Read
director
Katie Gunn
registered architect
Qualifications:
Registered Architect
B.Arch (Hons),
B.Com (Tourism)
Why Victoria chose to work in architecture:
I am passionate about contributing positively to our built environment – architecture is about people and I really enjoy working collaboratively through the complexities of a project towards a building that will enhance the lives of those who use it.
Inspiration:
I am inspired by the New Zealand landscape. I am inspired by architecture that reflects the natural and cultural environment and adds to the built landscape in a positive way. I love architecture that makes you feel good inside.
Favourite building:
Kastrup Sea Bath in Denmark – a perfect example of architecture that reflects the built history and natural landscape in a modern and innovative way. The sea bath is an amazing gift to the Danish people.
Interests outside of work:
Gardening, travel, cooking, spending time with family and friends, walking, photography and yoga.
Qualifications:
Registered Architect
BAS - Architecture
BA - Art History & Media Studies
Why Katie chose to work in architecture:
I love the built form, how we intersect with it, how it interacts with the environment and how we can create, manipulate and facilitate great architecture that enhances lives and the world. If I boil it right down it is because I am passionate about good design.
Inspiration:
Inspiration is everywhere, in the weather worn baches on Wairarapa's wild coasts to the hi-tech highly efficient new office buildings of Wellington. The timber structures of Scandinavia to the small and minimal, yet perfectly proportioned houses of Japan.
Favourite building:
I adore Todd Saunders Fogo Island artist retreats. I find Peter Zumphor's St. Benedict Chapel. so inspiring for its ability to be modern yet reflect the traditions it comes from. Closer to home I love the hut inspirations of many NZ baches, including the Cardron Hut by RTA Studio and the Hut on Sleds by Crossan Architects.
Interests outside of work:
Wellness is a big part of my life outside of Architecture. My spare time is filled with exercise, cooking, getting outdoors - skiing in Winter and camping in Summer - drinking good wine with friends and most of all spending time with family.
Ryan Fothergill
registered architect
Judith Baynton
designer
Qualifications:
M. Arch,
ARBV – Victorian Registered Architect
Why Ryan chose to work in architecture:
I was interested in how architecture could affect the way we live, work, learn and interact with each other. I wanted to know why some buildings inspired and others failed and how good design could be something that everybody could benefit from. I was also keen to understand how buildings could be designed better, reduce our impact on the environment and adapt to a changing world.
Inspiration:
For me inspiration can be triggered by artwork, design generally (not just architecture) like a piece of furniture, a park or a random invention that someone has created to make people’s lives easier. It can also simply be shared stories and conversations with others.
Favourite building:
If you were to twist my arm I might say that I really like Andrew Geller’s Long Island beach houses from the 50’s and 60’s. Simple materials, amazing geometries with incredible spaces.
Interests outside of work:
I’m a big fan of hiking and getting into nature. There are so many amazing trails and places to explore in NZ and without the worry of standing on any unsuspecting snakes. I also love cooking and can make damn good gnocchi.
Qualifications:
Why Jude chose to work in architecture:
Inspiration:
Favourite building:
Interests outside of work:
WHAT PEOPLE SAY
PIP GOODWIN
CEO PALLISER ESTATE
We contracted Aspect Architecture to re-design our Cellar Door and Administration offices. The design was in-line with our brand image and brief and we are incredibly happy with the results. Victoria and her team were very professional, accessible and accommodating. They listened to what was required and added to this while also ensuring all the practical necessities and compliance requirements were dealt within our tight timeframes. I have no hesitation in recommending Aspect Architecture.
CATHERINE DE GROOT
MARTINBOROUGH
It was a pleasure to work with Vicky on the design of our new home. Vicky is a very talented architect who worked with us to get exactly what we wanted from our new build. She is a consummate professional and you can rely on her to go the extra mile to sort out a problem or work out a design solution for your needs. She works extremely well with council, builders and landscape designers so that from design to completion the process is seamless and enjoyable. I would not hesitate to recommend her to you.
ANGELA AND NICK
LONGBUSH, CARTERTON
We moved into our new house last weekend. I just wanted to send you a note to say how delighted we are. It's absolutely beautiful, and practical too.
We think you (and your team) have done a great job. It feels so luxurious to us that we sometimes have the weird feeling of having been transported into a House and Garden magazine. But at the same time it still has the feeling that we wanted of something simple like a tramping hut or cabin. I often think back to the Pinterest images that we put together at the beginning of the design and I think you have captured exactly what we were after.
AS SEEN IN
WORK WITH US
We are here to help - Our familiarity with the local environment and proven experience working with local councils and construction firms means you get the best advice and best design solution for your needs.
Step 1
Download our FREE Project Planning Pack
This pack has all the information you need to plan for your project.
Step 2
Book in for a Studio Visit
At the visit we will help you understand more about the feasibility of your project and the building process.