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Good design is an extension of who we are and what we believe in.

Good design is an extension of who we are and what we believe in.

Chilton + Mayne studio interior in Christchurch with dark timber batten ceiling feature and vertical wall cladding

Practice Profile

Experience and Expertise

Great architecture starts with understanding people. Since establishing the practice in 2010, our focus has been on creating thoughtful, timeless buildings that respond to the way our clients live, work, and connect with their surroundings.

Based in Ashburton and working throughout Mid Canterbury and across the South Island and New Zealand, our studio delivers a diverse range of projects including bespoke homes, renovations, commercial buildings, hospitality spaces, educational facilities, and large-scale developments. While every project is unique, they are all guided by the same commitment to strong design principles, practical thinking, and attention to detail.

Our team combines creative design with technical expertise, allowing us to guide projects from the earliest concepts through to detailed documentation and construction. We work closely with clients, consultants, councils, and builders to ensure the process feels collaborative, transparent, and enjoyable from start to finish.

Over the years, our work has received recognition through a number of regional and national design awards. While we are proud of these achievements, our greatest measure of success remains creating buildings that genuinely improve the lives of the people who use them every day.

We value architecture that feels enduring rather than trend-driven — buildings that sit comfortably within their environment, age gracefully, and continue to perform well for years to come. Whether designing a rural family home, a lakeside retreat, or a commercial development, our aim is always to create architecture with clarity, warmth, and purpose.

Book Appointment
Reception at the Chilton + Mayne architectural design studio, Christchurch, with marble counter and geometric feature wall
Gary and David, directors of Chilton + Mayne architectural designers, reviewing house plans at the studio in Christchurch
Baring Square East and clock tower, Ashburton, in late afternoon light

Philosophy

We see architecture as more than simply designing buildings — it is about creating places that support lifestyle, connection, and wellbeing.

Every project begins with listening. Understanding how our clients live, what inspires them, and how they want their spaces to feel is fundamental to our design process. From there, we shape architecture that responds carefully to site, climate, light, privacy, and views while balancing functionality with timeless aesthetics.

Our design approach is grounded in simplicity, proportion, and material honesty. We are drawn to architecture that feels calm, refined, and authentic — spaces that are both practical and emotionally engaging. Natural materials, strong forms, thoughtful detailing, and a close relationship between indoors and outdoors are recurring themes throughout our work.

We also believe successful projects are built on strong relationships. Open communication and collaboration are central to the way we work, whether with clients, consultants, builders, or local communities. We aim to make the design and construction journey clear and enjoyable, while delivering buildings that exceed expectations both visually and functionally.

Sustainability is an important part of our thinking. Rather than treating it as an add-on, we integrate sustainable principles into the core of our designs through orientation, passive solar performance, efficient building envelopes, durable materials, and thoughtful planning. We believe good architecture should not only look good today, but continue to perform well into the future.

Ultimately, our philosophy is simple — to create architecture that is timeless, considered, and deeply connected to the people and places it serves.

Lakeside boardwalk and homes in a Canterbury subdivision at dusk, with a runner and dog on the path
Ripening barley field on the Canterbury Plains with shelterbelt trees on the horizon
David Chilton, Director at Chilton + Mayne architectural designers

David Chilton

Director

I enjoy working closely with clients to bring their ideas to life and guide projects from concept through to completion. For me, the most rewarding part of architecture is building strong relationships and helping clients navigate what can often be a complex process with confidence and clarity.

Over the years I have been involved in a diverse range of residential, commercial, and educational projects, developing practical and effective solutions that respond to both client requirements and project constraints. I believe successful projects are built on clear communication, collaboration, and a shared understanding of the desired outcome.

As a Director of Chilton + Mayne Architecture, I take pride in creating a positive and collaborative project environment. Working alongside our clients, consultants, contractors, and wider project teams allows us to achieve the best possible outcomes while maintaining a smooth and enjoyable design process.

I have a strong interest in understanding how buildings function and how people interact with them on a daily basis. This practical approach helps ensure our projects are not only visually appealing but also efficient, durable, and enjoyable to use for many years to come.

I believe good architecture starts with listening. By understanding each client’s goals, aspirations, and challenges, we can develop tailored solutions that balance functionality, budget, and long-term value. Ultimately, my goal is to help create spaces that work exceptionally well for the people who use them and deliver successful outcomes for everyone involved.

Garry Mayne, Director at Chilton + Mayne architectural designers

Garry Mayne

Director

I am passionate about creating architecture that is both timeless and deeply connected to its surroundings. My design approach is driven by a desire to create memorable buildings and spaces that respond thoughtfully to landscape, climate, lifestyle, and the unique opportunities presented by each site.

Throughout my career I have developed a strong interest in high-end residential architecture and the creation of bespoke environments that enrich the way people live. I enjoy exploring the relationship between architecture and place, designing buildings that sit comfortably within their setting while providing a distinctive and enduring architectural identity.

As a Director of Chilton + Mayne Architecture, I lead the design direction of projects from the earliest stages of concept development. I enjoy working closely with clients to uncover opportunities within a brief, challenge conventional thinking, and develop innovative solutions that achieve both aesthetic and functional excellence.

My design philosophy is centred on simplicity, authenticity, and careful consideration of materials. I believe architecture should be honest in its expression, perform efficiently over time, and create a lasting connection between people and the spaces they inhabit.

Whether working on a bespoke home, lifestyle property, commercial development, or community project, my focus remains the same: creating architecture that feels purposeful, refined, and enduring. The greatest satisfaction comes from seeing a completed project become a place that people genuinely enjoy and are proud to call their own.

Process

We believe the best projects come from a clear and collaborative process. Designing a home or building is a significant journey, and our role is to guide you through each stage with confidence, clarity, and creativity.

Every project is unique, however our process is structured to ensure thoughtful design development, clear communication, and careful coordination from concept through to completion.

Stage 1 — Initial Consultation & Brief

Every project begins with a conversation.

We take the time to understand your vision, lifestyle, priorities, budget, and long-term goals for the project. We also analyse the site, surrounding environment, planning requirements, orientation, views, climate, and opportunities unique to the property.

This early stage is about building a strong foundation for the design process and ensuring we fully understand what matters most to you before design work begins.

Stage 2 — Concept Design

This is where ideas begin to take shape.

Using the project brief as a guide, we develop preliminary design concepts that explore layout, form, spatial relationships, materials, and the overall architectural direction of the project. Plans, sketches, and early 3D visuals help communicate the design intent clearly.

Throughout this stage we work closely with you, refining and evolving the design until it feels right both functionally and aesthetically.

The goal is to create a design that responds thoughtfully to the site while reflecting the way you want to live or work within the space.

Stage 3 — Developed Design

Once the concept design is approved, we begin refining the project in greater detail.

This stage includes further development of floor plans, elevations, materials, interior detailing, and exterior finishes. We also begin coordinating with consultants such as structural engineers, surveyors, planners, and other specialists where required.

Realistic renders and walkthrough visuals may also be produced to help fully communicate the design before moving into technical documentation.

At this point, the project begins to transition from vision into a fully resolved building design.

Stage 4 — Documentation & Building Consent

With the design resolved, we prepare the detailed construction drawings and technical documentation required for building consent and construction pricing.

This stage includes detailed plans, specifications, construction details, and coordination with consultants to ensure all documentation aligns with New Zealand Building Code requirements and local council regulations.

We manage the building consent process on your behalf and work alongside council throughout the approval process to help keep things moving efficiently.

Stage 5 — Pricing & Contractor Collaboration

We believe collaboration with builders and contractors is an important part of a successful project.

Depending on the project, we can assist with contractor selection, tendering, pricing reviews, and early contractor involvement. Working closely with builders during this stage helps identify opportunities for efficiency, cost control, and buildability while protecting the integrity of the design.

Clear communication between all parties is key to achieving the best outcome.

Stage 6 — Construction Phase

Seeing a project come to life on site is one of the most rewarding parts of the process.

During construction, we remain involved to provide clarification, review progress, answer contractor queries, and help ensure the project is being built in accordance with the design intent and documentation.

Regular site visits and communication with the construction team help maintain quality and consistency throughout the build.

Stage 7 — Completion

The final stage is about bringing everything together.

As construction nears completion, we assist with final reviews and support the transition into occupation. Our goal is to ensure the finished result reflects the vision established at the beginning of the journey — a carefully considered building that feels timeless, functional, and uniquely tailored to its owners.

We see every project as a long-term relationship, and nothing is more rewarding than seeing our clients enjoying the spaces we have created together.

Sustainability

At Chilton + Mayne Architecture, we believe good architecture should not only look timeless and function beautifully — it should also perform well for the environment, the site, and the people who live within it.

Sustainability is considered from the earliest stages of design. Rather than treating it as an add-on, we integrate practical, long-lasting solutions into every project to create homes and buildings that are comfortable, efficient, and built to endure.

Compact black-clad high-country cabin with timber deck set among tussock, snow-capped ranges behind – site-responsive design by Chilton + Mayne

Our Approach to Sustainable Design

Passive Solar Design
We carefully consider orientation, sun angles, and glazing placement to maximise natural light and winter warmth while reducing overheating in summer. Well-designed eaves, sheltered outdoor spaces, and natural ventilation all contribute to a healthier and more comfortable living environment.
High-Performance Building Envelopes
We place strong emphasis on insulation, thermal performance, airtightness, and quality detailing. Thoughtful wall, roof, and window systems help reduce energy demand while improving year-round comfort.
Material Selection
We favour durable, low-maintenance materials that age gracefully and stand the test of time. Where possible, we incorporate sustainably sourced timber products and materials with lower embodied energy.
Longevity Through Timeless Design
A truly sustainable building is one that remains functional and loved for generations. Our design philosophy focuses on creating timeless architecture rather than following short-lived trends, helping reduce future renovation and replacement waste.
Energy Efficiency & Future Readiness
We regularly incorporate energy-efficient glazing, LED lighting, hydronic heating systems, solar-ready roof designs, and provisions for future technologies such as photovoltaic panels and EV charging.
Site Responsive Design
Every site is unique. We take time to understand wind, climate, topography, views, and privacy to ensure each project works naturally with its environment rather than against it.
Renovation & Adaptive Reuse
We see great value in retaining and reimagining existing buildings where possible. Thoughtful renovations can significantly reduce embodied carbon while preserving the character and history of a place.
Sustainability in Practice

Our projects often incorporate:

  • High-performance insulation systems
  • Thermally broken aluminium joinery and Low-E glazing
  • Cross ventilation and passive cooling strategies
  • Hydronic underfloor heating
  • Solar-ready roof layouts
  • Deep overhangs and shading devices
  • Warm roof and warm wall construction systems
  • Sustainable timber products
  • Water-efficient fixtures and rainwater strategies
  • Durable exterior materials designed for longevity
Designing for the Future

Sustainability means balancing performance, durability, comfort, and aesthetics. Our goal is to create architecture that not only responds to today’s needs but continues to perform well into the future — environmentally, functionally, and visually.

If you are planning a new home, renovation, or commercial project and would like to explore sustainable design principles, we’d love to discuss how these ideas can be integrated into your project.