Welcome to ARCHDES Evolution - where architectural excellence meets innovation!
At our core, we believe that great architecture is born out of determination. Determination to push boundaries, to explore new ideas and to relentlessly pursue perfection. When you choose us, you’re not just hiring a design team – you’re partnering with a group of individuals who are as passionate about your project as you are.
From concept to completion, we’re by your side every step of the way. We listen intently to your ideas, collaborate closely with you and leverage our expertise to create spaces that inspire and delight. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in every detail of our work, ensuring that your project exceeds your expectations.
About us
ARCHDES Evolution is a dynamic architectural design studio in Tauranga, with a portfolio covering projects from Northland to Southland.
ARCHDES collaborate with clients and leading building firms, ensuring their bespoke designs meet the highest standards and are easily buildable. With over fifteen years of experience, Sam leads the company with a passion for creating beautiful, minimalistic, and practical spaces. The team specialises in residential and large-scale development projects. ARCHDES Evolution is committed to delivering high-quality, environmentally conscious designs that exceed expectations and stand the test of time.
Meet our director
Sam is the Managing Director of ARCHDES Evolution, with over 18 years of industry experience across residential, multi-unit developments, duplex and townhouse projects, culturally significant designs, and commercial architecture. Holding a Diploma in Architecture and LBP Design 2 qualification, Sam is also an ADNZ Professional Member, Qualified Homestar Designer, and has completed professional project management training through the University of Canterbury.
Throughout his career, Sam has worked on a diverse range of projects — from first-home residences to luxury homes and large-scale developments including Greenhill Park, Hobsonville superlots, retirement villages, and the 72-lot Jack’s Point development in Queenstown. Known for his practical design approach and strong industry relationships, Sam is passionate about delivering thoughtful architectural solutions that create lasting value for clients and communities.
Our mission
ARCHDES Evolution delivers high-quality, buildable architectural outcomes with a strong focus on real-world results—creating designs that stand out, perform, and endure. Guided by robust systems, clear processes, and a mindset of continuous improvement (“1% better every day”), they produce reliable and innovative architectural solutions. From concept to completion, they work closely with clients—listening carefully, collaborating openly, and shaping spaces designed to inspire and delight while exceeding expectations. With a client-first “yes” approach, they champion ideas and help bring each client’s vision to life.
Our vision
ARCHDES Evolution’s vision is to push the boundaries of innovation—positioning themselves as pioneers who challenge the status quo in how architecture is conceived, developed, and delivered. They aim to rethink what architectural practice can be by embracing an approach that is unapologetically unconventional, exciting, and innovative. At the same time, they’re building a highly focused studio grounded in best-of-industry thinking and systems—bringing together the strongest processes from across the industry into one cohesive practice that consistently raises the bar.
We’re setting a new benchmark for trusted, future-focused design.
Our history
10 years and counting.
Our journey began in 2006, with our Director Sam Austen entering the architectural industry and gaining experience across a wide range of practices — from boutique architectural studios to in-house design teams within building companies. This breadth of exposure shaped a clear understanding of what works, what doesn’t, and what could be better.
In 2016, ARCHDES Evolution was founded with a simple but ambitious goal: to merge the best systems, processes, and thinking from across the industry into one highly focused architectural practice. Since then, we’ve evolved into a dedicated, innovative, and detail-driven studio, grounded in buildability and real-world outcomes.
Today, we push boundaries through rigorous thinking, strong systems, and a commitment to continuous improvement — always striving to be just 1% better every day. Our focus is on delivering high-quality, reliable, and innovative architectural solutions that stand out, perform, and endure, in line with our mission, vision, and values.
It all starts with you. Whether you're weighing up a section, planning an alteration or ready to start a new build, we'd love to hear about it. Get in touch for a coffee and a chat, and you'll meet the people who'll bring your project to life.
THE EVOLUTION OF GREAT DESIGN