ABOUT US
As a practice Design Culture aspires to create elegant designs that seamlessly blend into their surroundings. Our main focus is on improving the experience of those who inhabit the spaces while delivering a cost-effective solution. As a firm, we believe in designing creative architectural solutions whilst crafting practical outcomes.
Design Culture was founded in Hamilton in 2016 and works on an array of projects varying from private houses, holiday retreats, house renovations, and specialized educational projects. Our goal is not only to create stunning structures but to help achieve our client's architectural vision.
ABOUT THE CREW
The People Who Make it Happen
JASON SMITH
Director
I began in the construction and design industry 17 years ago by working as a builder and completing a building apprenticeship. Once completed, and to further my education, I moved to Hamilton and trained as an Architectural Technician. Over the past 10 years I have worked on projects ranging from high end houses through to large educational facilities.
Jason not only has the architectural and documentation experience with a variety of different educational projects but his carpentry and building experience is invaluable to the exceptional development of practical and robust design.
JOSEPH MCAULEY
Senior Architectural Designer
Ko Te Rōpū Hāhi Mihingare to Hapū
Ko Hemi Hemara te tangata
Ko Hōhepa Mcauley ahau
He Kaihoahoa, He Ringa Whao me Ringa tā hoki
As a trained Architectural Designer, Carver and Kōwhaiwhai artist, Joe has extensive expertise in story telling, community lead and culturally significant design. He has experience practicing across Aotearoa, the UK and Europe working with high-end commercial and residential work as well as education and tribal kaupapa closer to home. Joe also has a strong background in design coordination, BIM and project management focused on achieving the best solutions for each and every project.
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OCTAVIO MORENO
Architectural Designer
I regard myself as a hardworking, responsible and creative person. I am always looking for opportunities to acquire more knowledge about the architecture industry. I’ve finished my Bachelor’s in Architecture in 2012 at the Faculty of Architecture & Design from Colima’s University in Mexico. After studying I began my career in architecture in Mexico by working on various residential and commercial projects as a supervisor, project manager and designer.
Over the last seven years, Octavio has shown a range of different skills found within the construction industry. His diverse range of experience influences his designs making them efficient as well as contemporary.
LAURA ANGARITA
PROJECT ARCHITECT (MEXICO)
Laura Angarita is an Architect with eight years of experience directing corporate, commercial, and residential projects across Colombia. She manages every development phase—from initial design and municipal licensing to construction execution and budget scheduling.
Her award-winning work includes recognition at the XXCCII Bienal Colombiana de Arquitectura y Urbanismo and the IDB’s "Cities for People" contest. Complemented by a background in real estate brokerage, Laura brings sharp insights into urban regulations, property feasibility, and asset value.
Bilingual (Spanish/English C1) and proficient in Revit, AutoCAD, and SketchUp, she turns complex spatial challenges into functional, high-value architecture.
