Reed Marshall established Taupo-based RPM Architecture in 2007 and soon found himself designing homes for Jennian Homes. “I was involved back then in designing all their homes as well as having my own clients.
“This was straight after working for a local designer for four years and completing three years full time undertaking an architectural diploma based at WINTEC in Hamilton,” Reed explains.
He has plenty of work on the go and is considering taking on a draftsman in the not too distant future. “It’s just me on my own at the moment and I have plenty of work on the go at various stages. With this profession it is possible to jump from one project to another which keeps the practice going well.”
Reed has enjoyed undertaking some major renovation projects. One such project, a complete gutting and redesign of over the footprint of two large existing homes on lake Taupo’s waterfront, was completed in 2015.
The two original dwellings were separated by a block wall. Reed says it was a very intricate, complex and gratifyingly challenging project which extended over one-and-a-half years.
Reed was also involved with the design of the Oceania Football Complex located in Glen Innes, Auckland valued at $10m. He enjoys working on intricate and interesting designs and he had just completed a large renovation on his own home.
“I especially enjoy working through the basic design processes with clients, many of whom come to me with a blank page in terms of what they would like to live in.” When this happens Reed spends time helping them develop their wish-list.
“I ask them to give me their top 10 wants and we begin with these and their budget in mind. “They are often very excited when I develop concept drawings from my interpretation of what they most want in their home.”
Reed has clients scattered throughout New Zealand and enjoys the opportunities to work up designs relating to vastly different topographies.
“On a lot of the sections our clients build on we have to work very hard to get the design elements and the situation of the home perfect for the nature of the site. That’s a challenge I really enjoy.”
He says it is important not to hurry the to and froing of the concept design stage as clients become clearer about what are the design and living features they most want to have.
“You get a sense from clients when you are nearing a home they are very comfortable with. It’s about getting to know them well and keeping communication open at all times.” Using 3D software has revolutionised the process and outcomes achieved for clients Reed explains.
Reed Marshall has undertaken some major renovation projects throughout the Taupo district.
“It gives a much better feel for spaces and fl ow of the design because you can get inside the home and move through it.”
While Reed designs homes in regions other than Taupo he says the local district council is proactive in processing consents and signing off plans, which he says is a very positive situation given the amount of new housing development taking place around the town.
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