Arch.Hive FAQ’s

Packages & Value

  • Arch.Hive combines the creativity of architectural design with the efficiency of a streamlined build process. Benefits include:

    • Time savings: consent-ready plans reduce the design phase by 8–11 months

    • Cost savings: up to $95,000 in design fees, plus trade pricing advantages

    • Budget clarity: guided QS pricing from day one

    • Flexibility: customisation options without the hassle and cost of a fully bespoke process

  • all Arch.Hive packages include an interior design package at your selected price tier. This ensures you receive a detailed build budget and finishes schedule, helping guide your decisions and streamline the construction process.

    That said, you’re free to work with your own interior designer or specify alternative materials once you’ve purchased the package. We’ll provide the digital files so your designer can easily build on our documentation.

  • Each Arch.Hive house package provides everything you need to move confidently toward consent and construction. This includes:

    • Consent-ready architectural plans – professionally designed and prepared for council submission.

    • Full construction drawings – detailed plans your builder and trades can follow on site.

    • Guided QS budget – a comprehensive quantity survey with detailed material take-offs and cost ranges against every line item. This format is ready for your builder to use when ordering materials, reducing errors and delays.

    • Standard specifications – including cladding, roofing, joinery (windows and doors), and insulation tailored to NZ Building Code requirements and your specific location.

  • Arch.Hive offers curated interior design schemes tailored to a wide range of colour palettes, materials, and three budget tiers—so you can choose a package that fits your style and spend.

    Each package includes:

    • Detailed Finishes Schedule – covering flooring, cabinetry, benchtops, tiles, fittings, fixtures, paint colours, lighting, and hardware.

    • Interior Drawing Sets – including bathroom tile & plumbing layouts, cabinetry plans for laundry, vanity, scullery, kitchen, kitchen island, plus any other drawings required for a complete fit-out.

    • Electrical & Lighting Plan – ensuring consistency and functionality throughout your home.

    This package is optional and designed to streamline the design process, save time, and reduce decision fatigue—while ensuring your home feels cohesive and professionally styled.

Design & Customisation

  • Yes. While we don’t offer fully bespoke designs, all Arch.Hive plans can be customised. Options include altering windows, extending spaces or footprints, adding an extra bedroom, widening bathrooms or hallways, and more—so your plan works for your lifestyle and site.

  • Costs vary depending on the scope of changes. Some items may be quoted as a fixed fee, while others are charged hourly.

    Our team can provide guidance and a tailored estimate once your requirements are clear, prior to proceeding the scope of work.

  • Yes. We have a preferred range of cladding products selected for durability, low maintenance, and aesthetic appeal. Each package includes a default cladding option, but alternatives are available and can be priced accordingly.

  • Our curated interior packages are designed around providing a range of carefully curated, minimalistic finishes, and offer three tiers of budget per colour scheme. Minimal customisation is possible with our in-house interior designer.

    For a fully bespoke interior fit-out, you may choose your own designer.

  • Yes. Floor plans can be customised in both width and length to better suit your section, orientation, or lifestyle needs. This may involve additional design work, which we’ll quote based on the scope of change.

Pricing & Budget

  • The build prices shown are averages based on typical construction costs. Actual pricing will vary depending on:

    • Your location (location may vary costs for materials and trades)

    • The contractors or builder you choose

    • Local labour and supply rates

    Every package includes a Quantity Survey (QS) report covering materials, labour, and contract items, with a range provided for each cost line. Allowing you to control your project budget with more confidence.

  • Yes. Our third-party QS partner can prepare a detailed, location-specific cost report for an additional fee. This includes:

    • Confirmed material pricing sourced directly with your builder or suppliers

    • 2–3 quotes for all trades and contractors

    • Review of scope and inclusions

    • Recommendations for the suggested preferred options.

    This ensures your pricing is accurate to your site and builder.

  • Yes. The advertised build price range includes standard timber piles or a standard concrete slab foundation.

  • Foundation type is determined by your site’s Geotechnical (Geotech) report.

    • For flat sites, a concrete slab is most common for both cost and aesthetics.

    • For sloping or flood-prone sites, timber piles are often better suited.

    • Other options include blockwork bases, architecturally exposed foundations, or screw piles.

    Your foundation will be specified to suit your property & personal preference.

  • All Arch.Hive plans specify high-quality aluminium joinery from APL with Low-E glazing (a level above double glazed). A range of colour options are available for the aluminium frames which are typically matched to the colour scheme chosen. Upgrades to tinted glazing, thermally broken or higher-performance joinery is available if required.

  • Site establishment costs (such as earthworks, drainage, services, driveways, and retaining walls) vary widely depending on your property. These are not included in the standard house package price. A site-specific QS service is available for an additional package. Once the concept set is completed, the QS can provide an accurate estimate for your location.

    Connecting to main services and site works - $100,000 - $200,000

    Rural services and site works - $180,000 - $300,000

    The above is based on an average project of 160m2 for a standard site. The allowances include a large range of items and variables. Please enquire for more information.

Construction & Process

  • You can choose your own trusted builder, or we can recommend experienced builders from our network.

  • Yes. While Arch.Hive provides consent-ready plans, you can choose to work with your own architect or designer for the site-specific consent drawings.

    Alternatively, our in-house team can manage this process for you, ensuring a seamless and cost-efficient path to consent.

  • Unfortunately not. Arch.Hive focuses on providing consent-ready designs. Construction is managed by your builder or preferred project management company. We can suggest independent project managers if desired.

  •  From design selection to consent, projects usually take 3–5 months, compared to 12–16 months with traditional architecture. Timelines vary depending on site complexity, customisation, and council processing.

Compliance & Specifications

  • Yes. All plans are detailed and priced to meet High Wind Zone requirements as standard. They can also be customised for;

    • Extra High Wind

    • Snow Loading

    • Earthquake Zones

    • Flood Zones

  • Insulation is specified to meet New Zealand Building Code requirements for the wider Auckland region as standard for the price range advertised. For projects in alternative regions, specifications are adjusted and may adjust the pricing. You can also upgrade insulation beyond minimum standards if you want improved energy performance.

  • All Arch.Hive plans specify high-quality aluminium joinery from APL with Low-E glazing (a level above double glazed). A range of colour options are available for the aluminium frames which are typically matched to the colour scheme chosen. Upgrades to tinted glazing, thermally broken or higher-performance joinery is available if required.

  • No. The packages are optional and designed for clients who prefer a curated, time-efficient approach. They’re perfect if you want a cohesive look without decision fatigue. Alternatively, you’re free to use your own interior designer.

  • All designs comply with NZ Building Code requirements, including insulation, ventilation, and heating standards. Energy-efficient upgrades are also available.