About Stufkens+Chambers Architects

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We create architecture that responds to people, place, and purpose – designing buildings and environments that feel connected and enduring.

Established in 2010, led by Architects Marcus Stufkens and Steven Chambers, Stufkens + Chambers Architects is an award-winning New Zealand practice working across residential, commercial, education, tourism, community, and public projects. With studios in Christchurch, Tauranga, and Dunedin, our work spans the length of the country, bringing together local understanding with a nationwide perspective.

Marcus and Steven share a belief that great architecture is about more than just buildings – it is about creating places that people connect with.

As founders of Stufkens + Chambers, they have spent nearly two decades leading projects across New Zealand, bringing together creativity, technical expertise, and a deep understanding of how people experience the built environment. Their work is united by a commitment to thoughtful design, strong relationships, and architecture that enriches communities and reflects the character of its place.

They believe successful architecture balances creativity with practicality. It should inspire, but also perform; be beautiful, yet robust; and continue to enrich the lives of those who use it long after construction is complete. Whether designing a family home, a tourism destination, a learning environment, or a civic space, our focus remains the same: creating meaningful places that strengthen connections between people, communities, and the environments they inhabit.

Our approach is collaborative and client-focused, resulting in spaces that respond thoughtfully to their context while meeting the unique needs of those who use them.

Our Philosophy

We believe good architecture begins with understanding

Before drawing lines on a page, we take the time to listen – to our clients, to the stories of a place, and to the opportunities and challenges that make every project unique. Through this process, we uncover what is most important and use that understanding to shape spaces that feel authentic, purposeful, and enduring.

Rather than imposing a particular style, we look for design responses that grow naturally from their surroundings. Landscape, climate, history, culture, and community all play a role in shaping the outcome, helping create buildings and places connected to where they belong.

Our approach balances creativity with practicality. We believe great design should not only inspire, but also work well, be efficient to build, and serve the people who use it every day. By carefully considering materials, detail, and sustainability, we create architecture that delivers lasting value and enriches the lives of those who experience it.

Ultimately, our goal is simple: to create thoughtful places that people connect with, enjoy, and remember.

Team

At Stufkens + Chambers, our strength lies in our people

Marcus and Steven are supported by a talented team of 14–16 staff, including Registered Architects, Graduate Architects, Architectural Technicians and Interior Designers. Together, they bring a collaborative and design-focused approach to projects across Aotearoa. Associates Simon Adnitt, Tania Fisk, Jason Luke, and Joseph Yu play a key leadership role within the practice. Collectively, they contribute a diverse range of expertise and experience, leading the delivery of award-winning projects of varying scales and complexities throughout New Zealand.

Our Services

We provide a comprehensive range of architectural, planning, and design services, supporting projects from initial vision and feasibility through to construction and completion.

Strategic planning and feasibility
Site selection and due diligence
Master planning and urban design
Architectural design
Interior architecture and interior design
3D modelling and visualisation
Resource consent documentation
Sustainability and environmental strategies
Consultant coordination
Cost planning and value management
Tendering and procurement
Contract administration
Project management
Construction observation and quality assurance

Sectors & Expertise

Our experience spans a diverse range of sectors across New Zealand. While each project is unique, our approach remains grounded in thoughtful design, practical outcomes, and creating lasting value for clients and communities.