Shape Architects

09/10/2026

Weiti II

Recently, we’ve been fortunate to work on a number of homes in prominent, elevated locations overlooking the water.

As a designer, these are among the most rewarding sites to work with. New Zealand’s coastline offers vistas that are truly unique, and in many cases, among the most remarkable in the world. To design a home around these landscapes is a privilege.

Coastal architecture takes many forms, from its planning and proportions to its materiality. Yet the most successful examples share a common philosophy: the architecture should sit in harmony with the landscape, responding to the terrain rather than competing with it.

Weiti 2 follows this principle. Its planar form stretches horizontally across the expansive site frontage, establishing a strong relationship with the surrounding landscape. The house steps with the natural slope, creating privacy from the road while elevating the living spaces to capture uninterrupted views of the sea. The result is a home where the interior and exterior connect seamlessly, allowing the coastal setting to become an integral part of everyday living.

11/09/2026

At Palma on Cecil, the pool is designed as an extension of the home rather than a separate outdoor feature.

Living spaces open directly onto landscaped courtyards and private pools, creating a seamless connection between architecture, interiors and outdoor living. The result is a calm, resort-like setting that feels private, refined and effortless.

A considered approach to coastal living, just moments from Milford Beach.

10/09/2026

We’re proud to introduce Palma on Cecil

Three bespoke architectural homes in the heart of Milford, just a minute’s walk from the beach.

Over the past two months, our team has brought every aspect of the project together, from architecture and interiors through to visualisation and the complete marketing package.

Designed to balance architectural ambition with considered development, each home features custom-designed kitchens, sculptural curved staircases, intimate entertaining spaces and seamless connections to private pools and landscaped outdoor areas.

Palma is one of two premium residential developments we’re bringing to market this month, both reflecting our ambition to create distinctive, enduring homes and a higher standard of living.

Ultimately, we hope these homes stand the test of time and are enjoyed for many years to come.

04/09/2026

04/09/2026

Palma | Milford

A boutique residential development in the heart of Milford, thoughtfully designed for contemporary coastal living.

04/09/2026

Clonbern | Remuera

A contemporary response to Remuera’s established residential character, shaped by privacy, openness, and connection to landscape.

14/08/2026

Yesterday, all three projects submitted by Shape Architects to the Best Design Awards 2026 were announced as finalists — across three categories: Residential Interior Design, Healthcare & Wellbeing, and Multiresidential Design.

The three projects are Notre Dame Living, Kew Terraces, and Edition House — our founder Han’s own home.

We’ve been so focused on chasing the “next big project” that we’ve barely had time to stop and appreciate the work that’s already been done. In fact, we haven’t even had a chance to properly share these projects yet.

These might seem like small milestones in the bigger picture, but being recognised on one of New Zealand’s leading design stages, alongside some of the architects and designers we’ve long admired, means a lot to our team.

Regardless of whether we come away with Gold, Silver or Bronze, being shortlisted gives us a moment to pause, reflect, and appreciate the countless hours our team has put into these projects — and into Shape’s journey so far.

These three projects represent the first chapter of Shape’s built work.

And there’s plenty more to come.

24/07/2026

Clonbern | Remuera

Located within the established streetscape of Remuera, Clonbern responds to the area’s character through a considered balance of privacy, openness, and connection to landscape.

Vertical forms, textured screening, and soft planting create a contemporary interpretation of the suburb’s residential setting, with light-filled interiors opening onto a private courtyard.

Launching for presale soon.

24/07/2026

Clonbern | Remuera

Located within the established streetscape of Remuera, Clonbern responds to the area’s character through a considered balance of privacy, openness, and connection to landscape.

Vertical forms, textured screening, and soft planting reinterpret the suburb’s residential character, while light-filled interiors extend into a private courtyard.