About Design Base Architects
We design spaces that improve how people live, work, and connect.
DBA is an architecture practice with a holistic approach to design
We are committed to designing buildings that are environmentally responsible, high-performing, practical and engaging to all.
We pride ourselves on improving the built environment by exploring the use of locally-sourced, sustainable materials, creating healthy living environments and using innovative, efficient building systems. We believe in a collaborative approach to architectural design and documentation with the Client, Builders and Engineers being critical to achieving quality architecture.
Every project is personal, and we take the time to listen, understand your needs, and craft solutions that feel thoughtful, intentional, and enduring. To us, great architecture is about both form and function. Well-considered details combined with sustainable materials and high performance design create spaces that feel good and function even better.
With our diverse skill set we can design with a variety of traditional and innovative engineered construction types allowing us to find the best solution to achieve the required design. We are an NZIA practice with offices in Whakatū (Nelson), Wānaka and Waihōpai (Invercargill).
We are currently undertaking architectural design work across the country, including hotels, pre-fabricated social housing, light industrial, offices, car show rooms and bespoke residential designs.
Through thoughtful design, we create homes that are energy-efficient, environmentally responsible and tailored to support a more conscious way of living – today, and for generations to come.
High-performance Houses
High-performance homes are designed to work hard for you, keeping you warm in winter, cool in summer, and comfortable all year round with minimal energy use.
Sustainable Materials
We prioritise materials that are kind to the environment and built to stand the test of time.
Social Good
We’re passionate about creating spaces that serve the people that use them whilst also contributing to the wellbeing of the wider community.
Our People
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Peter Marment
Director | Registered Architect, B.Arch, NZRAB 5113, NZIA
Peter Marment has been the director of Design Base since 2018 and a driving force behind the practice for more than a decade. Over this time, he has guided the studio’s growth to become a practice with a broad and diverse portfolio—ranging from bespoke renovations to large-scale commercial projects.
His approach to architecture is grounded in a commitment to building performance, environmental responsibility, and the belief that well-designed spaces can enhance people’s lives. A strong advocate for social housing, Peter is passionate about how better living environments can improve wellbeing and strengthen communities.
Contact Peter
peterm@designbase.co.nz
+64 020 406 43004 -
Jo Underwood
BAArch, NPrA, Registered Architect NZRAB 5594, Passive House Designer.
Jo heads up our Wānaka office and brings her extensive experience to some of our major projects, including the Monte Christo Winery and commercial fit-outs, as well as our local residential projects.
Jo is a registered architect, is keenly interested in sustainably built well-performing buildings, is a Homestar assessor and has recently qualified as a Passive House Consultant. She is involved in the local Better Building Working Group and the local natural building community having designed a Hempcrete house for her family.
Contact Jo
jo@designbase.co.nz
+64 21 051 9315 -
Ben Mackie
MArch(prof), BAS, Registered Architect NZRAB
Ben Mackie is a recently Registered Architect with a strong interest in improving the built environment through performance-focused design. He has a thorough knowledge of building science and is passionate about how better building performance can improve health, comfort, and sustainability.
Ben has played a key role in delivering multiple housing projects for Habitat for Humanity, bringing a collaborative and hands-on approach.
Outside of Ben’s work he is an engaged community member who enjoys hitting the markets with his wife and two young children.
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Mark Heathfield
NZDAT (Arch), NZDRE
As an Architectural Designer, Mark has a strong environmental focus and has been involved with many of our major projects over the past 10 years, including the Kaikoura District Council building, 160+ HNZ townhouses, medical centers, light commercial and multiple renovations.
Beyond work, Mark enjoys various activities with his wife and two teenage boys.
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Richard Race
LBP Design 2
Richard is an Architectural Designer in our Invercargill office and is a part of the DBA furniture, being our longest standing staff member. He’s always up for the challenge of complex projects and brings his calm methodical approach to co-ordinating and preparing great documentation. Most recently Richard completed the plans and detailing for the Monte Christo Winery which came with many new technical challenges.
When not behind the desk, he can be found winging it in the skies or hitting the southern tracks with his Boxer pup.
Get in touch to book a free consultation or send us a message with any questions. No pressure, just a down-to-earth kōrero about where we can take your vision.
info@designbase.co.nz
0800 100 040