About Us
FORMA Architects deliver practical, well-resolved architecture across a wide range of project types, with an especially strong track record in commercial, health, and heritage work.
We focus on value, not overdesign — aligning each project with client needs, budgets, and the realities of construction.
Our understanding of construction realities means we know where to focus effort and where to keep things simple. This reduces risk, avoids unnecessary variation, and creates a smoother path from concept to completion.
Our strong relationships with contractors and consultants — built over decades — help us lead cohesive teams, resolve issues quickly, and keep things moving. Because time is money, and outcomes matter.
Our Commitment
We stay the course — even when things get tough.
Projects evolve, directions shift, and challenges arise. We’re here to guide you through it all, helping you avoid costly detours and make informed decisions that keep things moving in the right direction.
Successful projects are about more than drawings — they’re about navigating relationships, systems, and processes. We know when to push, when to step in, and when to stand firm. You can count on us to be your advocate — ensuring your project is run fairly, efficiently, and with integrity, no matter who’s in the room.
We’re not just designers — we’re committed partners, here to see your project through.
Our Services
FORMA Architects offers flexible, design-led services shaped to fit the needs of each project. Whether full architectural delivery or a more targeted scope, we focus on what’s necessary to get the job done — clearly, efficiently, and to a high standard.
We bring strong design expertise, technical know-how, and the ability to navigate complex projects without losing sight of quality. From traditional delivery models to design and build, we’re experienced in working within a range of contractual frameworks and know how to keep things moving smoothly.
Whatever the scope or setup, we bring clarity, care, and capability — helping you avoid unnecessary detours and delivering outcomes you can rely on.
Adding Value Through Design
Design adds value in many ways — through how a building looks, functions, is built, and performs over time.
At FORMA, we combine design skill with technical depth to create architecture that’s both intelligent and enduring. We balance ambition with budget, aesthetics with practicality, and creativity with construction realities — because great outcomes rely on all of it.
Our work is grounded in deep product knowledge, construction experience, and a clear understanding of where design can make the biggest impact. We focus on smart decisions, buildable details, and tailored solutions that serve the client, not just the concept.
We’ve delivered everything from multi-storey commercial buildings to heritage projects, hospitals and residential apartments — bringing design leadership, coordination, and care to every stage.
We design with intent — combining architectural vision with real-world expertise to deliver buildings that stand up, stand out, and stand the test of time.
Process and Costs
Early Advice + Feasibility → Design + approvals → Detailed Design + Documentation → Construction + Delivery
While every project is different, this is a typical framework that guides how we work. Our process is adaptable — tailored to suit your scope, budget, and programme — with the right people involved at the right time to ensure smart, efficient delivery.
Early Advice + Feasibility
Getting the foundations right.
Initial site visit and consultation to understand the brief, risks, and constraints
Feasibility studies, bulk and location concepts, and compliance advice
Early input on budget, programme, and delivery strategy
Contractual advice and coordination of early consultant input (as needed)
Design + Approvals
Designing with purpose and clarity.
Preliminary + Concept Design to explore spatial layout, form, and architectural ideas
Developed Design to refine structure, materials, and systems
Early coordination with engineers, planners, and quantity surveyors
Resource Consent preparation (if required)
Detailed Design + Documentation
Making it buildable.
Full Detailed Design and Building Consent documentation
Comprehensive construction drawings and specifications
Ongoing consultant coordination to ensure consistency and compliance
Support with procurement, tendering, or Design & Build integration
Construction + Delivery
Supporting you through to completion.
Site observation and contractor coordination
Response to RFIs, review of shop drawings, and quality control
Contract administration, payment certification, and practical completion
Final inspections and post-completion advice
Real Projects, Real Outcomes
Every building is different — and so is every solution.
Holy Trinity Church Hall
Award-winning seismic strengthening, restoration, and extension of a 1910 heritage church hall in Devonport — blending old and new to create a safe, flexible, and enduring community space.
Franklin Hospital
A $34M, 3,500m² purpose-built private hospital in Auckland, delivering high-end surgical, diagnostic, and recovery facilities — designed to meet strict clinical standards at every level
Junior Junction Childcare
A purpose-built early childhood education centre designed for 100 children, featuring dedicated play areas tailored to different age groups. The project was developed in close collaboration with the church, building owner, and tenant Junior Junction to ensure a shared vision and functional outcome.
What Our Clients Say
“Many compliments have been passed since the space was opened for public use” and “design for a seamless connection between the old and new elements of the building by allowing natural light to flow into the space, windows were placed to allow visibility to the original brick structure and retention of natural wood flooring where possible were all well considered design elements, overall, a job well done.” – Chris Haefele (Holy Trinity Church Hall)
— Franklin Hospital
