ABOUT
Stufkens + Chambers Crafting Considered Spaces
We create architecture that responds to people, place, and purpose – designing buildings and environments that feel connected and enduring.
Established in 2010, led by Architects Marcus Stufkens and Steven Chambers, Stufkens + Chambers Architects is an award-winning New Zealand practice working across residential, commercial, education, tourism, community, and public projects. With studios in Christchurch, Tauranga, and Dunedin, our work spans the length of the country, bringing together local understanding with a nationwide perspective.
Marcus and Steven share a belief that great architecture is about more than just buildings – it is about creating places that people connect with.
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As founders of Stufkens + Chambers, they have spent nearly two decades leading projects across New Zealand, bringing together creativity, technical expertise, and a deep understanding of how people experience the built environment. Their work is united by a commitment to thoughtful design, strong relationships, and architecture that enriches communities and reflects the character of its place.
They believe successful architecture balances creativity with practicality. It should inspire, but also perform; be beautiful, yet robust; and continue to enrich the lives of those who use it long after construction is complete. Whether designing a family home, a tourism destination, a learning environment, or a civic space, our focus remains the same: creating meaningful places that strengthen connections between people, communities, and the environments they inhabit.
Our approach is collaborative and client-focused, resulting in spaces that respond thoughtfully to their context while meeting the unique needs of those who use them.
Marcus Stufkens
Director – Registered Architect
Marcus Stufkens
Director – Registered Architect
Marcus Stufkens is a founding Principal of Stufkens + Chambers and has played a central role in shaping the practice since its establishment in 2010. Combining strong design instincts with commercial insight, Marcus brings a balanced approach to architecture that delivers highly creative outcomes while staying grounded in practicality, buildability and long-term value.
With particular expertise in education, private and multi-unit residential, and commercial development sectors, Marcus is passionate about creating environments that enrich users’ lives while contributing positively to the wider urban fabric. He believes successful architecture should respond to human needs, support thriving, livable communities, and achieve the objectives underpinning successful projects.
Known for his meticulous attention to detail and hands-on involvement throughout the design and delivery process, Marcus works closely with clients, consultants and project teams to ensure every project is thoughtfully resolved and efficiently executed. His leadership, technical expertise and commitment to design quality are reflected in architecture that performs exceptionally well.
Steven Chambers
Director – Registered Architect
Steven Chambers
Director – Registered Architect
Steven Chambers is a founding Principal of Stufkens + Chambers and is recognised for his ability to see the bigger picture – helping clients and communities shape long-term visions that extend beyond individual buildings. His work is driven by a belief that architecture should do more than function well; it should create memorable experiences, foster connection, and positively influence how people feel within a place.
Known for his collaborative approach, Steven thrives on bringing people together around a shared vision and guiding projects from strategic thinking through to built reality. He has developed particular expertise in community, hospitality, and placemaking projects, becoming a respected voice within New Zealand’s tourism sector through industry leadership, conference presentations, and advisory roles.
Steven’s work is grounded in understanding the relationship between people, place, and experience, where he seeks to create environments that are welcoming, enduring, and meaningful to those who use them.
TEAM
At Stufkens + Chambers, our strength lies in our people
Marcus and Steven are supported by a talented team of 12–16 staff, including Registered Architects, Graduate Architects, and Architectural Technicians. Together, they bring a collaborative and design-focused approach to projects across Aotearoa.
Associates Simon Adnitt, Tania Fisk, Jason Luke, and Joseph Yu play a key leadership role within the practice. Collectively, they contribute a diverse range of expertise and experience, leading the delivery of award-winning projects of varying scales and complexities throughout New Zealand.
Simon Adnitt
Senior Associate Architect
Tania Fisk
Senior Associate
Jason Luke
Associate
Joseph Yu
Associate
Philosophy
We believe good architecture begins with understanding
Before drawing lines on a page, we take the time to listen – to our clients, to the stories of a place, and to the opportunities and challenges that make every project unique. Through this process we uncover what is most important and use that understanding to shape spaces that feel authentic, purposeful, and enduring.
Rather than imposing a particular style, we look for design responses that grow naturally from their surroundings. Landscape, climate, history, culture, and community all play a role in shaping the outcome, helping create buildings and places connected to where they belong.
Our approach balances creativity with practicality. We believe great design should not only inspire, but also work well, be efficient to build, and serve the people who use it every day. By carefully considering materials, detail, and sustainability, we create architecture that delivers lasting value and enriches the lives of those who experience it.
Ultimately, our goal is simple: to create thoughtful places that people connect with, enjoy, and remember.
Services
Sectors & Expertise
Our experience spans a diverse range of sectors across New Zealand. While each project is unique, our approach remains grounded in thoughtful design, practical outcomes, and creating lasting value for clients and communities.
- Residential
- Multi-Unit Residential
- Commercial & Mixed-Use
- Interior Architecture & Design
- Tourism & Holiday Parks
- Hospitality
- Master Planning
- Placemaking & Destination Development
- Industrial
- Community & Civic
- Spa, Wellness & Resort Facilities
- Education
Services
Our Services
- Strategic planning and feasibility
- Site selection and due diligence
- Master planning and urban design
- Architectural design
- Interior architecture and interior design
- 3D modelling and visualisation
- Resource consent documentation
- Sustainability and environmental strategies
- Consultant coordination
- Cost planning and value management
- Tendering and procurement
- Contract administration
- Project management
- Construction observation and quality assurance