Dwell HQ: Expert Minor Dwelling Design & Build Solutions
Welcome to Dwell HQ, New Zealand's trusted partner for compliant, high-quality minor dwelling and granny flat solutions. With the new January 2026 regulations removing building and resource consent requirements, we make adding a secondary dwelling to your property faster, simpler, and stress-free. Our expert architectural, structural engineering, and project management team ensures every design meets NZ Building Code standards while maximising your property's potential.
Consent-Free Designs
NZ Code Compliant
Download the Info Pack
Understanding New Zealand's 2026 Minor Dwelling Revolution
What Changed in January 2026?
New Zealand's building regulations underwent a significant transformation, removing the need for building consent and resource consent for minor dwellings and granny flats—provided all planning requirements are met and designs comply with NZ Building Code standards.
This groundbreaking change means property owners can now add secondary dwellings to their land with dramatically reduced time, cost, and administrative burden. The streamlined process opens new possibilities for multi-generational living, rental income, and property value enhancement.
Faster Approvals
No more waiting months for consent processing. Begin construction sooner with pre-approved compliant designs.
Reduced Costs
Eliminate consent application fees and associated professional costs, saving thousands on your project.
Full Compliance
Our designs meet all NZ Building Code requirements, ensuring safety, quality, and peace of mind.

Important: While consent may not be required, all designs must still meet planning requirements and building code standards. Dwell HQ ensures your project ticks every compliance box.
About Us
Dwell HQ: Where Architecture Meets Engineering Excellence
Dwell HQ is a specialized division combining the architectural expertise of Archemics Design with the structural engineering precision of Crowe Consulting. Together, we deliver minor dwelling solutions that are not only beautiful and functional but also engineered to the highest safety and compliance standards.
Our Trio Expertise
We bring together three critical disciplines: architectural design, which creates livable, attractive spaces; structural engineering, which ensures every dwelling is safe, durable, and code-compliant; and project management and quantity surveying, which ensure everything in the build runs smoothly and stays on budget. This integrated approach means your project benefits from seamless coordination, eliminating the gaps that often occur when all three work separately.
Why Choose Us?
With years of experience in New Zealand's building industry, we understand local regulations, climate considerations, and construction standards. We've designed our process specifically for the 2026 regulatory framework, giving you confidence that your minor dwelling will meet all requirements without the traditional consent process delays.
Archemics Design
Experienced architectural firm specializing in residential design throughout New Zealand. Our team creates spaces that balance aesthetics, functionality, and compliance with building regulations.
Crowe Consulting
Licensed structural engineering consultants with extensive experience in residential and commercial projects. We ensure every structure meets rigorous safety and performance standards.
Fougere CO
Fougere Co. is a construction cost and management company dedicated to delivering on-time and on-budget projects. They focus on planning and end-to-end management to ensure projects are delivered efficiently and with confidence.
"Our mission is to make quality minor dwelling construction accessible to every New Zealand property owner, leveraging the new regulations to unlock your property's full potential."
Unlike working with separate firms, our unified approach streamlines communication, reduces errors, and delivers faster project completion with consistent quality across all disciplines.
Our Minor Dwelling Design & Build Services
From initial concept through to construction-ready documentation, Dwell HQ provides comprehensive minor dwelling services tailored to the 2026 consent-free framework. Every design we create is pre-verified for NZ Building Code compliance, planning requirement alignment, and structural integrity.
01
Initial Consultation
We assess your property, discuss your needs, and explain how the new regulations apply to your specific situation.
02
Site Analysis
Our team evaluates site conditions, boundary setbacks, access requirements, and utility connections to ensure compliance.
03
Custom Design
We create architectural plans that maximize space, functionality, and aesthetic appeal while meeting all building code requirements.
04
Structural Engineering
Crowe Consulting develops comprehensive structural documentation ensuring your dwelling is safe, stable, and regulation-compliant.
05
Documentation Package
Receive complete construction-ready plans, specifications, and compliance certificates for your builder to execute.
What We Deliver
Architectural Documentation
  • Floor plans and elevations
  • Site plans with boundary compliance
  • Material specifications
  • Interior layout optimization
  • Window and door schedules
  • Kitchen and bathroom designs
Engineering Documentation
  • Foundation design and specifications
  • Structural frame calculations
  • Load-bearing wall details
  • Roof structure engineering
  • Seismic and wind load analysis
  • PS1 Producer Statement
Tendering and project management
  • Cost estimation and budget control for construction projects
  • Coordination of construction schedules and on-site progress
  • Quality control and compliance monitoring
  • Risk assessment and mitigation strategies
  • Oversight of PS1 and other producer statements to ensure regulatory compliance
100%
Code Compliant
Every design meets NZ Building Code requirements
15+
Years Experience
Combined expertise in NZ building industry
48hrs
Quick Turnaround
Initial feasibility assessment completed fast

Popular Options: Studio configurations (30-45m²), one-bedroom units (45-60m²), and two-bedroom dwellings (60-70m²). We can customize any design to suit your needs and site constraints.
Free Resource
Download Your Free Minor Dwelling Info Pack
Everything You Need to Know About NZ's New Minor Dwelling Rules
Our comprehensive guide covers the January 2026 regulatory changes, compliance requirements, design considerations, cost estimates, and step-by-step processes. Whether you're considering a granny flat for family, rental income, or property value enhancement, this pack provides the essential information to make informed decisions.
1
Understanding the 2026 Changes
Complete explanation of what consent-free means, what requirements still apply, and how to ensure compliance.
2
Planning Your Project
Site assessment checklist, boundary setbacks, access requirements, utility connections, and design considerations.
3
Cost Breakdown Guide
Typical investment ranges for design, engineering, construction, and additional services with New Zealand market rates.
4
Design Inspiration
Example floor plans, elevation drawings, and interior layouts showing what's possible within code requirements.
Get Your Free Info Pack Today
Simply provide your contact details below, and we'll send you immediate access to our comprehensive minor dwelling guide. You'll also receive exclusive updates on design trends, regulatory insights, and special offers from Dwell HQ.

What Happens Next: After downloading the info pack, our team will follow up within 48 hours to answer any questions and discuss how we can help with your specific project. No obligation, just expert guidance.
Instant Delivery
Receive your info pack immediately via email in PDF format, ready to read on any device.
Expert Follow-Up
Get personalized answers to your questions from our experienced architectural and engineering team.
Free Consultation
Schedule a complimentary 30-minute consultation to discuss your property's potential and next steps.
Contact Dwell HQ
Ready to Start Your Project?
Whether you're ready to begin design work or just exploring possibilities, our team is here to help. Contact us for a free initial consultation where we'll assess your property, discuss your goals, and explain exactly how the consent-free process works for your situation
Service Areas
We provide minor dwelling design and engineering services throughout New Zealand, with particular expertise in Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, and surrounding regions. Our understanding of local council requirements and regional building considerations ensures your project proceeds smoothly regardless of location.
Dwell HQ is a specialized service by Archemics Design, Crowe Consulting, & Fougere Co. combining architectural excellence, structural engineering expertise, and excellent construction management and quantity surveying to deliver New Zealand's most trusted minor dwelling solutions.