“Architecture should be for all, not just the few”

Leigh Garner (BAS) LBP Design Level 2
Design Director, Origin Architecture

 

Origin is led by its Design Director, Leigh Garner. Hailing from Somerset in the UK, Leigh moved to New Zealand in 2004, and is experienced in working in all areas of architecture, including residential, commercial and civic projects. His passion lies in providing everyday people with solutions to their projects, no matter how large or small.

It was during his time as a director of another architectural firm that it became apparent to Leigh that many of the common issues people were experiencing with their architectural journeys stemmed from breakdowns in communication and a lack of team work. As a result, he established Origin in 2019 - an architectural practice that focuses its processes and methodologies on collaboration and communication to ensure the best possible outcomes for his clients.

Origin aims to have an honest and transparent relationship with all its clients, with a strong focus on budget. This means our process can differ form many other architectural practices, but with a proven record of happy clients and successful projects, we are confident in delivering the right outcomes on budget.

Modern house with large windows, surrounded by trees and greenery.

Our Services

Origin offers a complete range of architectural services, regardless of your project’s size, from small to large. Specialising in residential design, we provide a comprehensive package that covers every stage, from understanding your client brief and creating the design to obtaining council consents and overseeing construction. Our team is dedicated to ensuring a smooth and successful process, no matter the scale of your project.

Our services include:

  • Architectural design from concept through to completion.

  • Detailed design documentation and specifications for council consent.

  • 3D rendering.

  • Council Building and Resource consents.

  • High performance, low energy SIP panel home design.

  • Feasibility studies

Our Process

  • Stage 1- Feasibility

    Initial meeting to discuss your brief and budget.

    Investigation into your site.

    Identify site constraints and council limitations.

    We get a better understanding of consents and consultants required.

  • Stage 2- Preliminary Design

    Based on the client brief we produce preliminary design for client review.

    Origin works closely with selected builders to start the cost engineering process to ensure the design is being guided in the right direction.

    Early review and recommendations by consultants to highlight any potential costly and problematic areas.

  • Stage 3- Developed Design

    Plan adjustments made.

    3D concept design completed.

    Introduction to our in house interior designer for interior review.

    Materials confirmed

    Overall design agreed.

    Consents and consultants confirmed.

    Pricing updated with your Origin recommended Builder to ensure budget is being met.

  • Stage 4- Detailed Design

    Upon sign off of your developed design we move onto preparing the detailed design ready for council consent approval.

    Consent documentation

    Upon consent approval your build can commence.

    Your Origin Builder will provide you with an updated quote for the project and contract.

FAQs

  • Fees vary depending on project complexity, scope, and the level of service you require. We offer fixed-fee and staged pricing models and are happy to provide a free initial consultation and fee estimate tailored to your project.

  • Absolutely. We work closely with quantity surveyors and preferred builders to align the design with your budget from the outset.

  • Yes. We manage the building consent application process and can also assist with resource consents if required. Our experience working with local councils across New Zealand ensures we can help navigate regulatory requirements effectively.

  • This depends on project scale, council processing times, and the complexity of the site. As a general guide:

    • Concept design: 2–4 weeks

    • Developed design: 3–6 weeks

    • Building consent processing: 4–6 weeks (council dependent)

  • Yes. We offer integrated interior design through Origin Interiors, which allows us to create cohesive, well-resolved homes with accurate specifications for builders—helping reduce costs and enhance the final outcome.

  • We do. We partner with trusted builders to offer a streamlined design and build service, ensuring cost control, efficiency, and buildability from the outset.

  • Definitely. We specialise in high-performance homes, including SIP construction and passive design principles. We’re passionate about creating energy-efficient homes that are beautiful, durable, and comfortable to live in.

Contact us.