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. 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.
People
Peter Marment
B.Arch, NZRAB 5113, NZIA
Peter leads the Nelson office and became a director in 2016 after undertaking several major residential and commercial architecture projects across the South Island. Peter is a registered architect and has extensive experience in multi-residential, bespoke residential and design using prefabricated construction. Peter has recently completed his own house, with a focus on creating a sustainable and affordable home for his family.
Please contact Peter to discuss any projects in the Upper South Island.
Contact: peterm@designbase.co.nz
+64 20 4064 3004
JO UNDERWOOD
BAArch, NPrA, NZRAB 5594, NZIA
Jo joined us in 2022 to head up our Wanaka office and bring her extensive experience to some of our major projects, including the Monte Christo Winery and Waimarino Lodge. Jo is keenly interested in sustainably built, well-performing buildings, is a Homestar assessor, has studied Passive House design, and is currently in the process of building her family a Hempcrete home.
Please contact Jo to discuss any projects in the Lower South Island.
Contact: jo@designbase.co.nz
+64 21 051 9315
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 Kaikōura District Council’s building, 160+ HNZ townhouses, medical centres and prefabricated dwellings.
Beyond work, Mark is busy with his wife and two boys, plus the odd spot of mountain biking.
Richard Race
LBP Design 2
Richard is an architectural technician based out of our Invercargill office. He’s been with DBA for over 10 years and has been involved with many of our key commercial projects across the South Island.
Richard has a 2 year old pup (pictured) and they can be found exploring the southern South Island during their days off.
Ben Mackie
MArch(Prof), BAS
Ben is an architectural graduate based in Nelson who has quickly become a key team member. He is currently working on several residential projects, including an intergenerational medium-density cohousing development.
Outside of the office Ben has been increasing his distance with his running.
