Profile Image

Modal Architecture

Architecture & Design
Wellington
22 Reviews
|
30 Jobs completed
About

Modal Architecture is a New Zealand architectural design practice creating thoughtful, site responsive residential and commercial architecture throughout Aotearoa.

Working nationwide from our Wellington and Auckland offices, our team specialises in bespoke new homes, renovations and extensions, infill housing, architectural developments, holiday homes and baches, off site construction, and selected commercial and office projects.

We believe great architecture starts with understanding how people want to live. Every project is shaped around its site, brief and budget, with careful consideration given to natural light, spatial flow, materials, comfort, building performance and the connection between indoor and outdoor spaces.

Our team works closely with clients, builders, councils and specialist consultants from the earliest design ideas through consenting, detailed documentation and construction support. The aim is to make the architectural process clear and collaborative while delivering beautifully resolved, practical and buildable outcomes.

We work on projects throughout New Zealand, with experience across Auckland, Wellington, Kāpiti Coast, Wairarapa, Waikato, Taranaki, Hawke's Bay, Marlborough, Queenstown, Central Otago and beyond.

Wellington Office & HQ
Level 1, 43 Cuba Street
Te Aro, Wellington 6011

Auckland Office
Level 8, 139 Quay Street
Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010

Modal Architecture
Nationwide Reach. Uncompromising Execution.

What we do
Architecture & Design, Management, Planning & Consent
Areas served
Auckland, Franklin, Hauraki Islands, Manukau, North Shore, Papakura, Rodney, Waitakere, Rotorua, Tauranga, Western BOP, Ashburton, Christchurch, Timaru, Ruapehu, Taupo, Central Otago, Southland, Hauraki, Gisborne, Central Hawkes Bay, Hastings, Napier, Kaikoura, Marlborough, Nelson, Tasman, Clutha, Dunedin, Waitaki, Gore, Invercargill, New Plymouth, South Taranaki, Stratford, Hamilton, South Waikato, Waikato, Waitomo, Carterton, Masterton, South Wairarapa, South Wairarapa, Hutt Valley, Kapiti Coast, Porirua, Wellington, Queenstown Lakes, Coromandel, Waiheke Island, Catlins, Lower Hutt, Upper Hutt
Business type
Company
Free quotes
Provided
Contact name & address

Sam Hodgson

Level 1/43 Cuba Street
Te Aro
Wellington 6011
Verification

Shield ID verified
Shield NZBN verified
Trade licences

This company has provided the following trade licence registration details. These define what specialist work they can perform. Note that Builderscrack is not a licensing authority and takes no responsibility for the accuracy of this information. Please check any licence numbers yourself by clicking any given registration numbers below or ask the company to provide supporting documentation.

Trade licence Registration Ownership Details
Licensed Building Practitioners view details Verified Design
Electrical Worker Register - - -
NZ Registered Architects - - -
Plumbers Gasfitters & Drainlayers - - -
Asbestos Assessor Licence Holder Register - - -
Asbestos Remover Licence Holder Register - - -
Chartered Professional Engineer - - -
Insurance

This tradesperson has provided the following insurance details. Please check policy exclusions directly with the tradesperson. We recommend asking specifically about cover for "defective/ faulty workmanship" or "property being worked on".

Type
Public Liability & Professional Indemnity

Expiration
18th August 2027
Memberships & Associations

To gain membership, the tradie pays annual membership fees. In return they may be expected to follow levels of workmanship, codes of conduct and training as set out by the organisation. Memberships differ from trade licences.

Membership or Association
New Zealand Green Building Council
Te Kāhui Whaihanga New Zealand Institute of Architects
Projects

Bridgewell House

This home is a seamless composition of natural materials, thoughtful craftsmanship, and contemporary refinement, creating a strong yet elegant presence within its environment. Locally sourced stone forms the backbone of the design, grounding the structure in its surroundings while creating a continuous flow from exterior walls to interior fireplaces, reinforcing a sense of permanence and cohesion. Corten steel cladding, with its evolving patina, introduces a rich, organic contrast against the cooler tones of the corrugated metal roofing, which adds a contemporary edge and durability. Timber elements, from exterior pergolas to exposed interior beams, soften the composition, bringing warmth and authenticity to the design. Expansive Crittall and French-style windows enhance the home’s connection to nature, drawing in light and framing views of a landscape designed to complement the architecture. Ornamental grasses, low-maintenance perennials, and sculptural shrubs create a soft, dynamic contrast to the structured elements of corten steel and stone, while reclaimed timber steps and terraced stone walls create a natural flow between levels. Inside, a restrained palette of raw plaster, warm neutrals, and natural wood ensures an understated elegance, with open shelving, vintage-inspired fittings, and tactile furnishings reinforcing a lived-in, welcoming atmosphere. The outdoor living spaces echo the warmth of the interiors, with corten steel-edged garden beds, stone seating, and a feature fireplace that mirrors the textures found inside. The result is a home that evolves naturally over time, where materials weather beautifully, and every element—inside and out—feels deeply rooted in its place. Balancing structure and softness, tradition and modernity, this design creates an environment that is both enduring and inviting.

Seaside Escape

Nestled into a quiet suburban street in Waikanae Beach, "Seaside Escape" blends modern sophistication and natural charm. With a focus on durability, sustainability, and timeless design, every aspect of this easide sanctuary is meticulously crafted to create a luxurious, yet practical, living environment. Inside, this escape from Wellington boasts three bedrooms with indulgent carpet finishes. The main living areas marry elegance and functionality through features such as polished concrete floors and handleless cabinetry. The living spaces are a testament to spaciousness, with extravagant 3-meter-high timber ceilings and large opening skylights that flood the interior with natural light - seamlessly connecting indoor living with the sounds of the nearby coastal landscape. An expansive laundry offers amble storage and easy access to outdoor facilities, doubling as a mudroom. No feature is overlooked – the rubbish storage is hidden from day-to-day view. There is even a dedicated gym suitable for all fitness needs. Sustainability takes centre stage with roof-mounted solar panels and a solar kit discreetly integrated into the laundry storage space. This eco-friendly living is punctuated by the solar hot water heating. Water tanks within the slab will facilitate rainwater harvesting, keeping the stunning landscaping perpetually hydrated year round. The design is more than a retreat – offering the ideal space for guests, friends, and family. Occasional seating surrounds an opulent grand piano, in arm ’s reach of wine cellar. Guests have easy access to music, and a glass of bubbles in the glamorous and comfortable entertainment space. Outside, the home’s exterior design harmonises with the coastal setting, featuring cast concrete and shou sugi ban timber cladding – both are durable enough to withstand the rigors of seaside conditions yet exude a clean and elegant visual appeal. The landscaped grounds are a symphony of vibrant, evergreen plants including ferns, magnolias, nikau palms, grasses, and puka, each carefully chosen to complement the rugged elegance of the architecture. A large outdoor entertainment space beckons with a plunge pool and integrated spa, providing a serene retreat for relaxation and enjoyment - all amidst the coastal beauty. From the thoughtful design features to the curated interiors and landscaped surroundings. "Seaside Escape" is a testament to timeless luxury, complementing the harsh coastal environment while offering a sanctuary of comfort and style.

Coolidge Heights

Welcome to Coolidge Heights: A Captivating Oasis of Luxury and Living in Wellington, New Zealand. Meticulously crafted, this masterpiece seamlessly blends opulence, performance, and functionality. Nestled in the serene landscapes of the vibrant Brooklyn in Wellington, this visionary home offers an extraordinary living experience. From the beginning, the design concept aimed to create a forever home that integrates generous entertainment spaces and a luxury baking business down the line. The residence embraces the natural topography, nestled among trees and shrubs. The two-level and four-level structures showcase meticulous attention to detail, featuring exposed masonry, plaster render, and vertical panelling. Beyond its stunning aesthetics, the Coolidge Heights Residence prioritises well-being and functionality. A four-story lift shaft provides breathtaking views of Wellington's hills and harbour, ensuring seamless vertical mobility. The entertainment level flawlessly connects indoor and outdoor spaces. The bedroom level offers spacious hallways and luxurious walk-in showers, reflecting an unwavering commitment to comfort and convenience. Performance is at the core of this architectural marvel, featuring high-quality framing and glazing. The outdoor space is thoughtfully designed to accommodate vegetable gardens, and provisions have been made to accommodate, epitomising the project's commitment to a low-energy-use future. Our design philosophy shines through in Coolidge Heights, creating a high-quality, healthy home that stands the test of time. Immerse yourself in luxury living and connect to nature through architectural design. Discover this architectural gem in the vibrant Brooklyn community of Wellington, New Zealand.

Verified work reviews

Verified communication reviews

Google reviews

Google review rating
5.0
Profile image
Greg Clark
1 month ago

"Modal Architecture's talented team brings invaluable skill, knowledge, and experience. My home was halfway through an unconsented renovation when they came into the project, and since then, every project stage has gone smoothly. They demonstrate a thorough understanding of the architectural process and the Building Act. They manage input from myself, council and my first builder with ease, translating ideas into precise architectural plans. Their site involvement has been immensely helpful, including introducing a new builder when things went wrong, and getting my renovation back on track. They provide steady, reassuring guidance, explaining technical matters in plain english and maintaining consistent communication. Any site queries or on-site adjustments are handled smoothly." Reply: Thank you so much for taking the time to leave such a detailed review, Greg! It has been a real privilege to support your project as architectural designers, and registered architects, helping to get your Paremata residential renovation back on track. Navigating unconsented building work and Porirua City Council naturally comes with stress, so we are thrilled to hear that our guidance has given you peace of mind. We appreciate your trust in the Modal Architecture team to get your home renovation sorted!

Google Logo
Posted on Google
Profile image
Scott Macarthur
2 years ago

I worked with Sam on a residential project in Windy Ridge in Auckland. Sam creates great looking buildings and he was an ease to work with, ensuring the plans showed all relevant information to get the project through the resource consent process quickly. Reply: Cheers for the feedback Scott - Great to work with you!

Google Logo
Posted on Google
Profile image
Justin Thomas
3 years ago

Sam was amazing! He gave us some amazing concepts and tailored it to exactly what we were looking for. Highly recommended! Reply: Thanks Justin - It's been a pleasure to work with you & Emma on your renovation in Point Chevalier!

Google Logo
Posted on Google
Profile image
Ashleigh Martin
3 years ago

We have had an amazing experience dealing with Sam so far on our renovation project, exceeded expectations of service and concept delivery. Look forward to working on the next stage of the project with him. Reply: Thanks for your review Ash, we’re so pleased that you have enjoyed the process so far - we’re certainly looking forward to working through the next stages with you!

Google Logo
Posted on Google
Profile image
Ben Gardiner
3 years ago

We had a great exerience working with Sam and Lindsay on the designs for our renovation. Their knowledge and expertise, and ability to work with us and our builder led to a great outcome. Excellent communication and lots of support to navigate the design process and dealing with our consent application. We would recommend the Modal team to anyone looking for excellent design services. Reply: Thanks for a fantastic review Ben - We're always happy to hear feedback on a job well done! We're looking forward to seeing the finished product with you.

Google Logo
Posted on Google
Profile image
Rakesh Rana
3 years ago

Modal was very punctual, and spot on with discussing drawings ideas that I had, They took all the pain away from my major house rennovations which many others were scaring me just to start with. They were very good, and efficient, doing great work including dealing with council papers and needs. I highly recommend Modal Architecture - They're great Wellingtonians! Regards Rakii Reply: Thank you for your kind words Rakesh - It was an absolute pleasure to guide you through the process and deliver a great project with you!

Google Logo
Posted on Google
Showing 6 of 15 reviews

Get connected now with NZ’s largest trade professional network

Get started