Approach

‘Pop Top’ Concept
Langs Beach, New Zealand

Process

First Light values holistic design solutions based on listening and interpreting with fresh thinking and open-mindedness.  We treat each project as unique, acknowledging that no two are the same.  The imperative to create positive impact with built spaces is woven into the thinking at every stage of our design process.

Viewfinder Concept
Wellington, New Zealand

We will walk a collaborative design journey with you from beginning to end. Our studio environment is one which values all opinions and forgoes traditional hierarchies to ensure that the very best ideas bubble to the surface.  

Bach on the Bay
Pukerua Bay, New Zealand

Q1
Queenstown, New Zealand

We work closely with clients and stakeholders to gain a deep understanding of your brief, then test the brief via rigorous exploration and refinement. 

We operate at the leading edge of modern building systems, processes and technologies to provide fearless solutions that challenge the norm. 

Te Horo Beach House
Kāpiti Coast, New Zealand

Jacks Point Eco Houses
Queenstown, New Zealand

  • We offer a complete architectural design service, from briefing through to contractor procurement and site observation.

    We ensure a seamless experience from initial concept to final delivery. Our team's expertise and comprehensive approach enable us to address every aspect of a project, from architectural design to interior spaces, while maintaining a focus on sustainability and the client's vision.

  • We believe sustainability isn’t a choice but a responsibility. This belief underpins all our work. By being advocates for high-performance, passive house design we believe we are creating future built environments that have a positive impact on both the planet and the people they serve.

  • To create some of New Zealand's highest-performing homes, we utilize the best practices globally and within New Zealand. We are experts in Passivehaus principles and design and are certified Homestar designers and certifiers.

  • We believe that interior architecture and exterior architecture are two sides of the same coin; our design services encompass the whole picture.

  • We believe a building does not stand alone. Through an integrated approach, we understand the big picture.

  • We have a deep respect for Te Ao Māori and recognise the importance of our indigenous communities to our built environment. We pride ourselves on our ability to listen and collaborate to achieve authentic and integrated design outcomes with stakeholders and our communities.

  • First Light was borne out of a project requiring complex and sophisticated prefabrication; a fundamental focus of our practice is keeping abreast of current and emerging technologies and construction methodologies.

    We have designed using methodologies and systems including, volumetric, modular, panel and pod, CLT, SIP’s, and have worked closely with companies like Google Alphabet to reinvent the way we construct using offsite technologies.

  • Our holistic, multi-disciplinary practice excels in a range of creative services including product, digital, brand, strategy and urban planning.

    We offer in-house visualisations including hand-drawn sketches, computer-generated stills, real-time rendering, fly-through animations and interactive web content.

Services and Expertise

We are passionate collaborators who believe that the best results come from working with well-aligned partners to achieve shared goals. We've teamed up with some of the best and most innovative companies in New Zealand to deliver exceptional, high-performing homes.

Design Partners

eHaus

The biggest builder of passive homes in New Zealand. Designers and builders of New Zealand's healthiest, comfiest, highest-performing homes.

Sustainable Engineering

Building scientists who design and validate through thermal modelling and other cutting-edge technologies.

FLiP Homes

FLiP delivers clever, healthy homes which feature all the architectural inspiration of a bespoke design without the complexity, and cost.