Saaba architects specialise in residential architecture, interiors & bespoke commercial projects

AUCKLAND ARCHITECTS

Our work is defined by a respect for context and a commitment to creating buildings that are refined, comfortable, and enduring.

Every project is an opportunity to craft something unique - functional, thoughtful, and closely connected to the way you live and work.

Design excellence, proven capability

We combine creative design thinking with technical expertise, working with care to deliver exceptional built outcomes.

  • New builds

  • Renovations & additions

  • Heritage projects

  • Hospitality, retail, & cultural spaces

  • Bespoke commercial developments

led by experience, guided by collaboration

We take pride in a tailored, personal process: listening closely to our clients, seeking elegant solutions to each brief, and adding unexpected value through the design process. At the heart of our practice is collaboration - guiding clients from first ideas through to completion.

Our design approach is always shaped by the specifics of site and brief, and realised through the use of quality natural materials and skilled craftspeople. The result is highly detailed buildings that balance performance, beauty, and longevity.

Interiors

Alongside architecture, we offer a complete interior design service, creating a single vision for each project. By working closely with trusted suppliers and makers, we craft interiors that are sophisticated, comfortable, and livable.

Healthy & Sustainable Design

Sustainability is integral to how we design. We create spaces that enhance well-being. Our focus on natural light, ventilation, and energy efficiency creates spaces that benefit our clients and the environment.

SAABA Architects Auckland - A brown leather cushioned bench with a black metal support, placed on a textured brown and beige rug.

This breadth of experience shapes SAABA’s approach today:

Design that is refined yet approachable, balancing creativity with technical rigour, and grounded in collaboration.

Our Portfolio

breadth of experience

Saaba Architects is lead by Creative Director Kate Kerr, a New Zealand Registered Architect and member of the New Zealand Institute of Architects. Kate brings extensive experience gained across New Zealand, Australia, and Europe.

She has worked with leading practices including Fearon Hay, Ponting Fitzgerald, Jasmax, and Piercy & Company (UK), where she led teams on projects ranging from bespoke luxury homes to large-scale commercial developments.

Notable highlights include The Jellicoe at London’s Coal Drops Yard precinct, an award-winning heritage office extension in Shoreditch, and 538 K Road - New Zealand’s largest mass timber building with a 5 Green Star rating.

Two people working in a woodworking shop, surrounded by wood pieces, tools, and machinery, wearing masks and engaged in carpentry tasks.

Our approach

Start the conversation
  • A minimalist sketch of a city street with tall buildings, including domed and spired structures, with a clock tower showing the time.

    Understanding your site & vision

    Every project begins with listening.

    We take time to understand your goals, budget and the unique qualities of your site. Through open conversation, we set a strong foundation and ensure the design evolves in response to your aspirations.

  • Person writing with a black marker on a white piece of paper, with a partially visible photo or postcard, and green plant leaves in the background.

    Concept design

    We explore opportunities and constraints, considering context and layering in the essence of your brief. Concepts are tested, refined, and presented through plans and spatial explorations to bring the vision to life.

    Initial project costings can be undertaken at this early stage to ensure alignment with the project budget.

  • A round black table with a beige ceramic vase and a book on top, flanked by two wooden chairs with woven seats, next to a tall gold floor lamp with a brown shade, in front of beige curtains and a window.

    Design development & interiors

    Architecture and interiors are developed together into a cohesive response.

    We refine materials, volumes, layouts, and flow, while collaborating with trusted consultants to prepare for approvals, technical development, and construction.

  • Two people are pointing at architectural blueprints on a table, discussing the design.

    Drawings & Documentation

    Detailed drawings and technical documents provide clarity for consent, costings, and construction.

    These form the foundation for accurate pricing and smooth delivery.

  • A person working on a woodworking project, measuring and marking a piece of wood with a pencil in a workshop.

    Guiding you through the build

    We remain hands-on during construction, carrying out site visits and working closely with contractors. This ensures quality, accuracy, and confidence all the way through to completion.

Every project begins with a conversation

Beautiful design starts with listening. Share your ideas, site, and aspirations - we’ll work with you to shape a space that’s refined, enduring, and responsive to your needs.

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