Architectural design that’s both functional, and efficient.

We’re experienced listeners. We start by getting to know you, your vision and your priorities, then we bring them to life.

Design Solutions

We make designing and building stress-free

Building your dream project should be a joy, and that’s what we deliver. Design Solutions is an architectural design practice based on Auckland’s North Shore. We partner with you to bring your building vision to life – first on paper, then by helping to assemble an expert team to complete it to the highest standard.

Our difference is our absolute focus on completely understanding and meeting the priorities you have for your building project. We’ll work closely with you every step of the way to achieve a great result cost effectively.

For over 20 years, we’ve specialised in new home design, renovations, house extensions, and small commercial developments. We take pride in our reputation for producing quality projects with minimum fuss, and our wide network of trusted trade partners who support us in delivering them.

We love nothing better than chatting with you and exploring your design ideas. We’re always available at our convenient central Takapuna base, so come and pay us a visit, or we can arrange a time to visit you at your place to see your project come to life.

Our Team

Design Solutions is run by experienced architectural designers Matthew Bates and Duane Sidford

Matthew Bates and Duane Sidford have worked together since 2014. At the time Matt had been running his small design company for about six years and needed extra help to produce drawings for the many projects on his plate. Duane came onboard and soon joined Matt permanently when they merged their two companies in 2016, to create Design Solutions.

Duane and Matt share a drive and aptitude for delivering quality drawings, pairing functionality with unique details that reflect their clients’ needs and style. Their attention to detail has earned the trust of the builders they work with, who regularly recommend them to clients and other tradespeople.

Matthew Bates

Matthew Bates

Architectural Designer

Matt has over 20 years of architectural and retail design experience in a multitude of roles. He believes good design starts with an appreciation for the clients end goals and vision. Matt loves seeing their designs come to life and his client’s reaction to their creative efforts.

Duane Sidford

Duane Sidford

Architectural Designer

Duane has also worked in the architectural and design sectors for over 20 years. After many years of structural drafting, he has fully embraced the architectural design business and enjoys working closely with his clients and builders on the finer details of their builds. Duane leads our project coordination and sees projects through from start to finish.

End-to-end building project and building consent delivery

A project management system that works for you, and your building professionals

Design Solutions operates as a ‘design hub’. That means we’re an established team who can pull together all the trade elements involved in our clients’ building projects if required.

We can coordinate the other professionals involved, such as builders and engineering advisors – so you don’t have to manage that time-consuming process. You will get all the information you need through a single point with the design hub operating as a central project management team.

Because we work together regularly with consultants we know and trust, we all operate effectively as a team. So you will benefit from a smooth project outcome with less stress.

Project by experienced Auckland Architects

Design Solutions really care about their clients

Design Solutions Ltd is a talented bunch that’s a pleasure to work with, proactive in all that they do and importantly, really care about their clients. 

Duane and Matt made the whole building process, from design to dealing with the Council to project management, a stress-free process in creating a beautiful building. Their communication was exceptional, and you always knew what was going on and any issues were quickly resolved.

We were so impressed with Design Solutions Ltd that we’re already discussing the next project. The only regret was that we didn’t come across them earlier.

Northumberland Ave

Professionalism and peace of mind

We have chosen Matthew and the team at Design Solutions Limited to work with for the last two years on two specific projects. Professionalism and peace of mind are the words/ expressions that come to mind, especially in the minefield that is the combination of personal challenges and changes, and, council and building regulations.

During our projects we were in constant contact, always getting answers and action on issues in a timely manner. When it came to regulations and dealing with building authorities, we left that in Matthew and his teams care, knowing that all was being managed to the highest level.

From design, to consent, to build, to sign off, Matthew and the DSOL team have been there. They made the building process easier. And now, we wouldn’t build without them.

Roseberry Ave

Communication was always prompt

We chose to use Matthew at Design Solutions after discussing our ideas with several other architects. Matthew stood out as his ideas were very articulate, contemporary and easily interpreted.

Matthew was always at hand and ready to help every step of the way to sort out any issues. Communication was always prompt, pricing was extremely competitive and Mathew was very knowledgeable regarding Council regulations. 

Let's Build Something Together

Our team of skilled architectural drafts-people design and coordinate building projects all-over Auckland and New Zealand. From new developments to house extensions and renovations, we can help you bring your build to life.

Come and see us for a coffee and a chat to discuss your project, or we can come to you. Our consultations are free.