Innovative Designs for Modern Living Spaces
Renovation and Extensions
At Leading By Design, we specialise in delivering tailored renovation and extension solutions that maximise space, enhance functionality, and maintain the architectural integrity of your home. Whether you're looking to create seamless extensions, blend modern elements with heritage architecture, or adapt your home for a growing family, our expert team will bring your vision to life with bespoke designs.
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Get Started on Your Dream Renovation
Want More Space? We Can Help!
At Leading By Design Ltd, we specialise in transforming homes to maximise space, functionality, and modern aesthetics. Whether it's a home renovation, a residential extension, or a custom house design, our focus is on seamless integration and smart, efficient layouts.
Our architectural designers craft open-plan spaces, optimise storage solutions, and create multi-functional areas—perfect for garage conversions or apartment remodels. We are committed to sustainable, future-proof home designs, using eco-friendly materials and innovative building techniques to enhance every project.
From small renovations to large-scale home extensions, we ensure that your home works for you—both aesthetically and practically. Let our experienced home architects bring intelligent design and tailored solutions to your space.
Timeless Charm, Modern Functionality:
Heritage Renovations.
​​We specialise in breathing new life into heritage properties through thoughtful heritage home renovations that honour architectural history while integrating modern design for enhanced functionality. Our renovation architects carefully preserve original features while upgrading insulation, energy efficiency, and structural integrity.
Whether restoring a Victorian terrace, mid-century home, or classic property, we ensureseamless heritage extensions—from garage conversions to modern kitchens—that complement existing aesthetics. Using smart architecture and sustainable materials, we create homes that are timeless, adaptable, and built for modern living.
Let’s bring your heritage home into the future while preserving its past.
Growing Family?
Create the Perfect Home Extension!
We are passionate about designing smart, family-friendly home extensions that evolve with your needs. Whether you need an extra bedroom, expanded living space, or a garage
conversion, our expert architects design custom solutions that seamlessly integrate with your existing home.
As your family grows, so should your home. From multi-storey extensions to open-plan living areas, we ensure every addition enhances flow, storage, and practicality. Using sustainable materials and modern architectural design, we craft homes that are functional, stylish, and built for the future.
Let’s create a space that grows with you!​
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What sets Leading By Design apart in home renovations and extensions?With over 25 years of experience in Residential, Retail, and Commercial design within the New Zealand market, Leading By Design offers boutique architectural services with a personal touch. From concept to consents and build, we ensure stress-free renovations and extensions that are tailored to your vision and needs. Our close-knit team blends functionality, aesthetics, and sustainability to deliver exceptional spaces with an end-to-end design process.
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What is your design process for home renovations and extensions?Our bespoke process starts with a free consultation at your home to understand your ideas for residential renovations or extensions. From concept design to working drawings and on-site support, we offer a step by step, process ensuring a smooth and tailored experience. Learn more about our design process here.
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What services do you offer for residential renovations and extensions?We provide comprehensive end-to-end architectural design services for home renovations and extensions, including dwelling extensions, kitchen remodels, bathroom upgrades, second-story additions, garage conversions, basement digouts, open-plan living spaces, and much more. Every project is customised to the clients individual needs and budget, designed to enhance your home's functionality, space and aesthetic appeal.
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Do I need to employ any other consultants for the renovation and extension?Depending on the complexity of the renovation, Leading By Design can refer and manage all consultants for your renovation. We collaborate with our trusted network of professional consultants and builders to ensure a coordinated and stress-free process.
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Do I need council approval for my renovation or extension?Yes, council approval is often required for residential renovation and extension projects. Our experienced designers take care of this process, handling all submissions and ensuring compliance with local building regulations, so you can enjoy a worry-free experience. We will also advise if your project doesn't need consent.
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How long does a typical home renovation or extension take?Timeframes vary based on the size and complexity of the project. Small renovations like kitchen or bathroom upgrades typically take 4–6 weeks, while larger house extensions, such as second-story additions, can take several months. We keep you informed with clear timelines to ensure everything runs smoothly. The design work and consenting at the front end usually takes between 1-3 months, again depending on the size of the renovation and how many consultants are required.
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Can you incorporate sustainable and energy-efficient designs?Absolutely! We specialise in eco-friendly architectural design solutions, including energy-efficient windows, sustainable materials, and advanced insulation. Whether you’re planning a green renovation or incorporating energy-efficient features into your house extension, Let us help you reimagine, rejuvenate, and extend your home into a space that is stunning, practical, and kind to our planet.
Testimonials
We have chosen Matthew and the team at Leading By Design to work with for the last two years on two specific projects, and we couldn’t be happier with the experience. From the very start, their professionalism has given us peace of mind—especially when navigating personal challenges alongside complex council and building regulations. From their exceptional designs to consent, construction to sign-off, they’ve been there every step of the way, making the entire building process easier. And now, we wouldn’t build without them!
Tony F
Roseberry Ave
After discussing our ideas with several other architects, Matthew’s contemporary, articulate designs stood out. Always responsive, knowledgeable, and pricing was extremely competitive—he really made the process so easy. The end result was a gorgeous ensuite/laundry added to our villa in Devonport. Without hesitation, highly recommend!
​David E
Beaconsfield Street
After meetings with a variety of different company’s, frustration was starting to set in. Thankfully we were referred to Matt and his team. They truly listened, embraced our unique requests, and all processes and associated costs were made transparent from the start plus each dealing with council was managed from their side.We look back at our renovation grateful for the input. Thank you LBD.
Chris M
Evelyn Place