Andesite Architects create signature projects of architecture and light as a synthesis of design, function and context. Our vision for architecture is contemporary and timeless design. We encourage energy efficient designs that continually push boundaries and innovation in architecture. Our aim is to create spaces for our clients that feel happy, joyful, peaceful, harmonious and that are filled with light. We engage in environmentally sustainable design and construction in our approach towards architecture – an architecture of quality and distinction.

The practice was established in 2010 by the architect Swee Ngee Low and involves variety of projects throughout New Zealand ranging from high quality residential houses to high density apartment development projects and community buildings. We have a special interest in integrating quality lighting design in architecture, both in terms of maximizing natural daylight design and application of artificial lighting design. We engage in the use and play of light within the architectural space as an expression of the poetics of architecture.

The architect has also worked on commercial, industrial and urban development projects, office fit outs, cafe design and educational projects including kindergartens, healthcare and entertainment projects.

Swee Ngee Low :

• Registered Architect (NZ)
• BArch (Hons) – Bachelor of Architecture (Honours), The University of Auckland 2003
• BAS – Bachelor of Architectural Studies, The University of Auckland 2001
• ANZIA – Associate of the New Zealand Institute of Architects
• NZIA Practice – Andesite Architects Ltd is a member practice of NZIA
• Worked on projects in Queenstown, Auckland, New Plymouth, Christchurch and Wellington.

• Live in New Zealand for over 25 years since 1999.
• Born in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Moved to New Zealand in 1999 for university architectural studies in Auckland, NZ. 
• Languages : English (native) and Chinese (conversational Mandarin, Hokkien, Cantonese), Malay(fluent), French(beginner)

•  Understanding of feng shui to harness energy forces and establish harmony between an individual and their environment.

Updates/ Developments :

• News publication by NZ Herald 13 Oct 2022: www.nzherald.co.nz/business/new-auckland-meditation-hub-rises-   science-of-the-soul-study-center-nearly-finished/XVARW6VXJJIXBIVFP3ZDBNPXXA

• Resource Consent approved for high density apartment development project by residential developer at Point England, Auckland. Aug 2021. Pending Building Consent and construction. 

Attended:

PLDC (Professional Lighting Design Convention)

• Rotterdam 2019
• Copenhagen 2013
• London 2007

PLDC is an International network of lighting designers, architects, researchers, universities, industry and clients use PLDC as a platform to meet and learn about the latest developments in lighting design.

Architectural travel to Copenhagen to experience the latest architectural developments: 2019, 2013, 2009.

Presentation talk for architects PSG (Practice Support Group), Queenstown, Aug 2022 by Swee Ngee Low: 

• Light in Architecture - The Intangible Material. 
• Summary: Light & perception, daylight illumination & energy efficiency, light & architectural heritage, projects.                                

Competition projects :

The SEED, Christchurch 

• Runner-up award in Design for Post-Earthquake Resilience of Cities: Multi-disciplinary Design Ideas Competition 2011
• International design competition organised by the New Zealand Society of Earthquake Engineering
• Design collaboration project by Andesite Architects Ltd, Auckland and Superlight ApS, Copenhagen

Busan Opera House

• Nominated for AAA Cavalier Bremworth Unbuilt Architecture Awards 2011 – Open Conceptual category
• Participated in architectural exhibition at St. Paul St Gallery, Auckland
• Design collaboration project by Andesite Architects Ltd, Auckland and Superlight ApS, Copenhagen