Fineline Architecture

DO NO HARM

We use creative thinking and innovation to reduce our impact on the environment.

CONNECT TO PLACE

We design with local ecosystems, knowledge and materials, creating architecture that connects people and the land.

RETHINK BEAUTY

We challenge traditional notions of beauty, embracing small and smart design solutions. Less (carbon) is more (joy).

THE RIGHT IMPACT

We are committed to making a positive impact on the ecological, social, and economic fabrics of the places we work in.

COLLABORATIVE CULTURE

We work with a diverse range of industries and educational entities to collectively shape our living environments.

We are not limited by size, budget or typology and happily take on challenging projects.

We work at increasing scales of complexity and refine the architecture at each stage of the process. Our typical process is structured in 3 design phases: Concept Design, Developed Design and Detailed Design followed by Procurement and Construction phases. We value good communication and guide our clients throughout the journey of designing and all the way to the finished built outcome. Our services are adaptable to our clients’ needs and the specificities of each project and we discuss this in-depth at the outset.

The Concept phase is an opportunity to creatively explore the potential of the project and the relationship between the project and its environment. During Developed Design, we refine the design, address environmental considerations, and select materials and finishes. We also coordinate consultant input and integrate technical and innovative strategies focused on materials, performance, sustainability and affordability. The Detailed Design phase brings together the conceptual intent and construction requirements into a clear and precise architectural documentation that is then used to convey the full scope of the project with builders and makers and achieve a high-quality architectural outcome.

Magdalena Garbarczyk | Co-founder & director, NZ Registered Architect, ANZIA, M.Arch

Magda was born in Warsaw, Poland, raised in France and studied in both France and the Netherlands. She gained professional experience at design-focused, internationally acclaimed firms in Madrid and Rotterdam before moving to New Zealand in 2012. In Tamaki Makaurau Auckland, she became a design team leader at the award-winning practice Fearon Hay Architects.

Always been interested in how architecture can positively contribute to society and address environmental challenges, Magda spent nearly a decade at Unitec School of Architecture as a lecturer, programme leader, and researcher. Her focus was on integrating sustainability to the core of architectural education, emphasising environmental awareness strategies. As a trained regenerative practitioner, Magda has been actively involved in large-scale, multidisciplinary urban regeneration projects in Auckland and Dunedin.

In 2021, Magda moved to Nelson and co-founded Fineline Architecture with the intention to practice in a way that is genuinely sustainable while continuing to bring a crafted and design-rich touch to projects of any scale. She is driven to achieving the highest quality design outcomes in every project and enjoys translating client’s aspirations into creative and innovative design solutions.

Magda is also co-founder of NelsonTasman2050, a local advocacy group dedicated to creating resilient, sustainable, and equitable urban environments.

Outside the office, Magda loves music, drawing, reading and immersing herself in the wild with her whanau.

Mathew Hay | Co-founder & director, NZ Registered Architect, ANZIA, B.Arch, BAS

Mathew hails from Gore in the southern part of the South Island and has traversed the country, living in areas such as Auckland and Wellington, before settling in Te Tau Ihu in 2005. After earning his degree from Auckland University in 2000, Mathew spent his formative years working alongside Malcolm Cheadle, who inspired him to establish his own practice. Consequently, for over 15 years, Mathew successfully operated his solo practice, undertaking diverse projects of various types, complexities, and scales across Aotearoa New Zealand – from 90 Mile Beach in the North to Castle Hill in the South, and extending into the Pacific.

Having contributed to numerous residential projects spanning all climate zones of Aotearoa, Mathew possesses a profound understanding of the unique beauty and challenges of living in this country. His dedication to comprehending the intricate assembly of buildings stems from his early work in furniture design and fabrication.

In 2021, Mathew joined forces with Magda to co-found Fineline Architecture, a venture reflecting their genuine commitment to sustainability. Passionate about translating designs into tangible results, Mathew meticulously crafts every detail with a blend of rigor and creativity. He prioritizes clear communication among all project stakeholders and closely monitors fabrication, assembly, and construction processes.

When not busy drawing or doing carbon calculations, Mathew finds joy in ocean swimming and exploring experimental gardening pursuits with his daughter.