Our Philosophy
Strachan Group Architects is a multiple award-winning Auckland practice. Grounded in a specific and detailed first-hand knowledge of construction the team brings a highly developed sense of craft to the task of creating sustainable buildings with precision and elegance.
The keen sense of attention that the practice brings to the interpretation of a client’s brief is equalled by a rich and complex understanding of how to respond to the subtleties of site, the impacts of the natural environment, and all the many contexts within which a building must operate. To these qualities, SGA adds a precise understanding of the requirements of construction, with an advanced level of experience of prefabrication and the use of digitally controlled machinery in the fabrication of building elements under tightly controlled conditions.
SGA takes pride in its ability to communicate ideas about building as they develop in conversation with clients, consultants and contractors. This skill has been honed in the extensive involvement the practice has had in education where it has delivered a number of design/build projects with architecture students that have been recognised by the New Zealand Institute of Architects by a series of Awards.
Recognised by their peers as an innovative and exciting practice SGA consists of a group of highly skilled people with a diverse range of complimentary skills. This flexible team is highly attuned to new developments in the building industry, appreciated by their many clients and capable of undertaking work at any scale.
Directors
Dave Strachan
2020 NZIA Gold Medal, FNZIA M.Arch (Hons) 2001, Reg. Arch. 1999, B.Arch. 1979.
As design director, Dave has over 40 years experience in the fields of building, interiors, teaching and architecture. Dave has a Master of Architecture Degree in Sustainable Design and is a 2002 graduate of the Newcastle University Glenn Murcutt Master class and has also been an Adjunct Professor at Unitec School of Architecture and Landscape Architecture.
Enthusiasm, energy and experience are brought to the practice through Dave's commitment to creating an innovative contemporary architecture, appropriate to New Zealand and its unique landscape.
Pat de Pont
ANZIA Reg. Arch. 1989, B.Arch 1987,
Pat joined the company as practice director in 1992 with experience in design, documentation and administration of residential, retail, commercial and education projects.
A belief that good design should be a positive and accessible influence in people's lives is reflected in a passion for innovative, sustainable housing and community projects and a commitment to teaching.
In addition to design work, Pat's responsibilities within the practice include the management and development of office and BIM/CAD systems, staff training, in-house document production and quality assurance.
Associates
Roy Tebbutt
ANZIA Reg. Arch. 2010, B.Arch.
Roy joined SGA in 2007, bringing knowledge of the construction industry following previous experience as a self employed building contractor. He has experience in design, documentation and project management of residential, public and commercial projects. Roy has a design driven approach, balanced by practical construction knowledge.
Kelly O’Sullivan
ANZIA Reg. Arch. 2018, B.Arch (Hons) 2010.
Kelly joined SGA in 2016 and has since become an integral member of the team developing her skills as project architect on residential design projects of all scales. Educated in Ireland, Kelly brings a discovered appreciation for the New Zealand lifestyle and an understanding of the importance of connectivity through architecture to the context of daily life, whether urban or rural.
The Team
Liese Thomson
Architect
ANZIA Reg. Arch.
M.Arch (Prof), BAS.
Homestar Designer & Assessor.
Shane Tregidga
Architect - Northern (Whangārei Based)
ANZIA Reg. Arch.
M.Arch (Prof), BAS.