Carnachan Architecture

Award winning architecture firm based in Tauranga, New Zealand.

Who We Are

Carnachan Architecture is a design-led practice based in Tauranga, creating timeless spaces that respond to the way people live and work. Led by Mark Carnachan, we work closely with clients to design homes, renovations, and commercial projects that are refined, functional, and grounded in place.

We believe great architecture comes from collaboration, clarity, and care, from understanding your goals to resolving the smallest details. Every project is shaped by its context, guided by strong design thinking, and built to last.

Meet the Team

  • Black and white photo of a man sitting cross-legged on a chair in front of a wooden wall. He is smiling, wearing a checkered shirt, and holding glasses in his right hand.

    Mark Carnachan

    DIRECTOR - DESIGN LEAD

  • A woman with long dark hair, wearing a black sweater and light-colored jeans, sitting on a stool in front of a wooden panel wall, smiling at the camera.

    Fana Quinole

    DESIGN LEAD

  • A woman with long straight hair sitting in front of a wood-paneled wall, wearing a black shirt and smiling.

    Lisa Beckett

    DRAFTING TECHNICIAN

A black and white photo of a man sitting cross-legged on a chair, smiling, holding glasses in his right hand, wearing a checkered shirt, against a wooden wall background.

Mark Carnachan

Mark is a Registered Architect with over 20 years of experience in architecture, planning, and interior design. He has led award-winning residential projects across New Zealand and worked with commercial clients including Coca-Cola, Fonterra, Port of Tauranga, and the University of Auckland.

His early career in boat building and hands-on renovation work has shaped a practical, detail-focused approach to design. Mark is a graduate of the University of Auckland School of Architecture, with further study in urban planning at Massey University. He’s committed to creating thoughtful, sustainable spaces and supports frameworks such as Homestar and Lifemark.

Our Values

  • THOUGHTFUL DESIGN

    We believe great architecture extends beyond aesthetics; its about creating spaces that enhance the way you live. Every project is carefully considered to balance beauty, functionality, and longevity, ensuring your home is not only visually appealing, but also a joy to live in.

  • COLLABORATION & TRUST

    Great architecture starts with listening. Each client, site, and vision is unique. We create designs that endure, avoiding a one-size-fits-all approach. Collaborating with clients and builders ensures the result suits both the project and its inhabitants.

  • INNOVATION & CREATIVITY

    We push boundaries while staying true to time-honoured principles. Our work combines contemporary thinking with enduring design, creating spaces that are fresh, functional, and inspiring.

  • A CONNECTION TO SPACE

    Our designs are inspired by New Zealand’s diverse landscapes, from coastal retreats to urban sanctuaries. We embrace the natural environment, maximising light, views and flow to create homes that feel effortless and in harmony with their surroundings.

  • QUALITY WITHOUT COMPROMISE

    Excellence is at the core of everything we do. From the materials we choose, to the precision of our craftsmanship, we are dedicated to delivering architectural solutions that stand the test of time.

Modern balcony with wooden floor and striped shadows, furnished with a gray cushioned sofa and two armchairs, enclosed by vertical black slats, with a view of neighboring houses.
Modern two-story house with white and wooden exterior, black gate and mailboxes, some small plants near the entrance, under a partly cloudy sky.