A shared vision between Slate & MiBuild

Slate Architecture & Construction was established in 2024 through the strategic merger of BuildtechNZ and Fortyone Architecture, who, with over 30 years of architectural design and construction expertise, built the partnership on a shared vision of harnessing the synergy between architecture and construction.

“We’re an integrated architecture and construction business – taking projects from initial planning and feasibility, to design concepts and consents, right through to finished construction,” says Slate marketing manager Heinrich Swartz.

Slate specialises in mid to high-end residential builds and light commercial projects under $10 million. As a true one-stop-shop, the team manages every stage – from design through to construction – delivering innovative, client-centric designs with cost-effective outcomes. Construction is also available as a standalone service for those with consented plans looking for an experienced main contractor to bring their vision to life.

The ‘Slate Experience’ is guided by four main principles: discovery, empathetic design, collaborative value engineering, and construction management. These values achieve the perfect combination of creativity and ideation, innovative design, guided by realism – ensuring achievable project outcomes.

Slate has three studio locations in New Plymouth, Levin and Tauranga, with a team of 10 across both design and construction. Projects typically include new residential homes, motels, housing units, duplexes, and apartments, along with multi-residential developments, and light commercial projects for both private clients and government organisations.

What sets Slate Architecture & Construction apart from competitors is their integrated design-and-build model, which removes the guesswork. The team delivers projects from initial briefing to delivery, with precision and innovation, and within budget.

“We bring design thinking and construction together to ensure buildability and design intent is preserved throughout the project’s journey,” says Heinrich. Slate Architecture & Construction are members of the Architectural Designers New Zealand (ADNZ), with subcontractors typically registered Master Builders and Master Electricians. Slate offers a 10-year Stamford Building Warranty on their new builds.

A recent stunning Slate project is the ‘Treble’ home on 111 Griffin Road, Maungaturoto north of Auckland. Uniquely for this project, Slate Architecture & Construction provided the design and oversight, with project management and construction delivered by MiBuild rather than Slate.

The Treble homeowners envisioned a forever home that embraced sweeping views of the town, countryside, and Kaipara Harbour. They sought a space that would feel warm and welcoming, yet make a bold architectural statement. Inspired by pavilion-style forms, rustic materials, exposed beams, recycled timber, and layered textures, the home was realised within a budget of approximately $1.2m.

Slate architectural designer Finn Tate led the 300sqm Treble home design, delivering a home that combines raw character with modern performance, the striking residence being defined by its three bold and distinctive gable wings. Set in the rolling hills of Maungaturoto, the Treble home blends rural character with modern performance. Built for an extra-high wind zone, its dual cladding system provides striking contrast and robust protection. nside, high-performance insulation, thermally broken joinery, and durable finishes ensure comfort and longevity.

Set in the rolling hills of Maungaturoto, the Treble home blends rural character with modern performance. Built for an extra-high wind zone, its dual cladding system provides striking contrast and robust protection