Have you ever walked through a beautifully designed space and noticed something slightly off? Perhaps cabinet doors that bump into each other when opened, a stunning window placed where the afternoon sun makes the room unbearably hot, or elegant fixtures that will inevitably be damaged during daily use?

These disconnects happen all too often in the world of architecture and design. The reason? Many designs look impressive on paper but haven't factored in the practical realities of construction and everyday living.

At 35 Below, we approach things differently. Our foundation in both carpentry and architectural design allows us to bridge the gap between architectural vision and practical construction—creating spaces that are not only beautiful to look at but actually work in real life.

The Disconnect Between Design and Construction

The architectural industry has long struggled with the disconnect between design and construction. Designs are often created based on aesthetic principles and spatial concepts, while builders face the practical challenges of turning those visions into physical reality.

This disconnect can lead to:

• Budget overruns when designs require complex construction solutions

• Timeline delays as builders struggle to implement impractical design elements

• Functionality issues that only become apparent once people start using the space

• Maintenance headaches from beautiful but impractical material choices

Ambitious Design Features: Understanding the Complexities

The Floating Staircase
A designer creates a stunning cantilevered staircase with no visible supports, appearing to float along the wall. It looks magnificent in renders, but in reality requires substantial hidden steel reinforcement that significantly increases costs and creates complex structural challenges. These designs often result in slight movement that homeowners weren't expecting and may require additional engineering documentation, potentially limiting future adaptability of the space.

The Seamless Indoor-Outdoor Flow
A design features flush thresholds between indoor and outdoor spaces with no visible transition. Beautiful in concept, but problematic because it creates significant waterproofing challenges in New Zealand's climate and requires complex drainage solutions below floor level. These features demand precise coordination between multiple trades and can create thermal bridging issues affecting energy efficiency if not properly detailed.

The Wall of Glass
Designs featuring floor-to-ceiling glass with minimal framing create breathtaking views, but present construction challenges including thermal performance issues, structural considerations in withstanding wind loads, and precise tolerance requirements. They often involve material lead times that can delay construction schedules and create maintenance considerations that homeowners might not initially anticipate.

With thoughtful planning and technical knowledge, these architectural features can be successfully integrated into your project. Our goal is never to limit design possibilities, but to implement them in a way that delivers both striking aesthetics and practical functionality. When properly planned and executed, these design elements can become stunning, successful features of your home.

Construction Knowledge: The Foundation of Better Design

At 35 Below, we bring over a decade of hands-on carpentry experience to every architectural project. This practical background fundamentally changes how design challenges are approached.

When drafting plans for your home or commercial space, we are considering:

• How the building will actually come together on site

• Which materials will perform best in your region's environment

• Where to invest in premium materials and where standard options will perform equally well

• How construction sequencing affects the timeline and budget

• Which design elements might create challenges for builders (and therefore cost more)

• How the space will function for real people in everyday situations

• How the space will evolve over time

From Vision to Reality: How Your Project Benefits

When your home design is created with both aesthetic vision and construction knowledge, the entire building process transforms. Here's how this integrated approach benefits you at every stage:

1. More Accurate Budgeting from Day One

• You'll receive realistic cost estimates before falling in love with unaffordable features

• Your budget is allocated strategically to areas where quality matters most

• Standard construction methods and materials are used where they make sense

• Potential cost overruns are identified and addressed during design, not during construction

2. A More Enjoyable Building Experience

• Your builders will thank you for plans that make practical sense

• Construction proceeds more efficiently without mid-project redesigns

• Fewer stressful decisions needed during the building phase

• Your timeline stays on track without unexpected delays

3. A Home That Works for Real Life

• Your kitchen functions as beautifully as it looks

• Spaces accommodate your actual daily routines and activities

• Materials stand up to the realities of your lifestyle

• Maintenance requirements align with your expectations and preferences

4. Long-Term Performance and Value

• Your home ages gracefully with materials appropriate to the local climate

• Energy efficiency is built into the design, not added as an afterthought

• Future adaptability is considered from the beginning

• Your investment is protected by thoughtful, forward-looking design decisions

The Philosophy of Balance

Truly successful spaces must balance form and function. "Spaces with Purpose" reflects a commitment to creating designs that are not only aesthetically pleasing but practical, buildable, and enhancing to daily life.

This philosophy is embedded in every project, whether it's a compact minor dwelling under 60m², a family home renovation, or a commercial fit-out. Each challenge is approached with both the designer's eye for beauty and the builder's understanding of practical reality.

Getting started

If you're planning a building or renovation project, consider the value of design that's informed by construction knowledge. This approach delivers spaces that are beautiful, functional, and built to last—without the headaches often associated with the design and building process.

Led by Adam Baker, 35 Below combines carpentry experience with architectural drafting expertise to create spaces that enhance how people live and work every day. Contact us for a complimentary initial consultation to discuss how we can transform your vision into reality, with solutions that are both considered and practical.

We are Licensed Building Practitioners.