Founders Cecile Bonifait and William Giesen decided to become business partners due to a mutual duality in the design process. With diverse experience, the trained architects are able to combine a wide range of professional work and research into their brainchild Bonnifait + Giesen Atelierworkshop Architects.

16 years on, the architectural duo has an extremely impressive portfolio of work behind them, with a particular focus on “finding sustainable solutions… without compromising on design.”  Their revamp of a 1950’s stucco house in the Kapiti Coast is a prime example, being the perfect combination of old and new – they have managed to entirely revamp the structure without losing its integrity.

Their skill outside the residential sphere is also prominent, and they have been involved in numerous significant public and commercial developments including the salvaging of New Plymouth’s historic White Hart Hotel. It is due to their expertise and precision that the significant building, which was once threatened with demolition, has been restored to former glory.