Don't Finalise A Design Before You Know What It Costs
A free Design & Build Consultation with Intelli Design Homes — before you spend a cent on architect fees — so the home you design is one you can actually afford to build.
Get My Instant Estimate Result NowFrom
Jack
Included! Design consultation, site walk-through and inspection, director’s consultation, selections checklist & comparison, and a rough estimate and budget scope.
The Problem
If An Architect Draws Plans Before You Get A Builder's Quote, You're Taking A Serious Gamble
You'll pay architects a hefty fee for a design, only to hear builders tell you your project is 25%, 50%, or double the price above your anticipated budget.
You'll be stuck between a rock and a hard place.
Spend tens (if not hundreds) of thousands more than you wanted to
Go back to the drawing board and pay your designer again for a less expensive version
Abandon the project altogether and lose the $10,000–$50,000 you paid for the original design
50-300%
How far off a design-first budget can land from actual build cost, without a builder's input early on
Due to rising material costs, this is a predicament many people today are finding themselves in.
What Usually Goes Wrong
Three Ways A Design-First Project Derails
Redesign Costs
Paying your architect again to bring a design you already love down to a price you can actually afford.
Budget Blowouts
Discovering the real number only after the drawings are finished — exactly when changing course costs the most.
Stalled Projects
Shelving a design you already paid for because no builder ever priced it before it was finished.
The Cost Of Skipping This Step
4 in 5
Home designs that never get built, because no builder priced them before the drawings were finished.
Instead of a finished home, that leaves people with a "paper house" — an expensive drawing of what their home could have been.
What A Typical Build Involves
More Line Items Than Most People Expect
Architects and designers rarely price these in — they're a builder's job to estimate accurately, which is exactly why getting one involved early changes the outcome.
Project management
Building permits & consents
Roofing
Windows and doors
Plumbing
Electrical
Flooring
Lighting
Site labour
Two Ways To Start
Design-First vs. Cost-First
Design First
Hire an architect
Pay for full drawings
Get quotes from builders
Discover the real cost
Redesign, cut scope, or walk away
Cost First
Get an instant estimate
Free Design & Build Consultation
Design within a real budget
Fixed-price quote, no surprises
Build with confidence
Why It Matters
See Where Your Budget Actually Goes
Every build breaks down into the same major cost categories. The difference between a design-first guess and a cost-first estimate is knowing these numbers before you start, not after.
Illustrative breakdown for a typical residential build — your consult gives you the real numbers for your project.
The Risk
A Dream Home Can Turn Into A Never-Ending Problem Project
Extensions and additions carry the same risk as a new build — unplanned plumbing, ventilation, and permit costs can throw a budget out by tens of thousands, and stretch a project from months into years.
It's the last thing you think about when your head hits the pillow each night, and the first thing you think about each morning.
Designers Show You What Your Dream Home Could Look Like. Builders Make It Real.
Why Us
Clarity, Accuracy, Confidence
Clarity on the entire process from day one
Accurate budget ranges before you commit financially
Design and construction handled by one team, from conception to completion
Line-by-line costing on every feature, not a rough guess
Site conditions and consent risk flagged early, not mid-build
Honest recommendations on where to adjust scope to stay in budget
Jack
Owner
Owner
Someone You Can Trust From Plans To Completion
If you're looking for someone you can trust with your project from plans through to completion, reach out and book a FREE Consultation so we can get to know you and your project.
Client Reviews
What Auckland homeowners are saying
Ryan Robert
24 Feb 2026
I can't speak highly enough about Peter and his crew at Intelli Design Homes. They did a lot of work on our old villa in Herne Bay, completely changing it. They restructured the layout, added an extension, and updated everything while preserving the unique character of the home. Their level of professionalism and meticulousness was outstanding. We were always a part of the decision-making process, and the end result is just amazing. It really feels like a new house, but it still has its old charm.
Quinn Blake
12 Feb 2026
We worked with Intelli Design Homes to build our new family home in Remuera, and the experience exceeded all expectations. Jack guided us through every step, from design choices to final finishes, and his communication was outstanding. The craftsmanship is top-tier, and every detail feels carefully considered. What stood out most was how they truly listened to our ideas and made sure our vision came to life. We couldn’t be happier.
Sian K
22 Aug 2025
We have a large and growing family so we hired Intelli Design Homes to build an addition in St. Heliers. They were terrific from the very first phone call that we had all the way through completion and I so greatly appreciate that Jack made the process stress-free by keeping us updated and explaining every stage clearly. The workmanship is flawless, and the new space integrates beautifully with the existing house. We’re thrilled with the result.
SAKSHI KHAMGAONKAR
23 Mar 2026
Rated Intelli Design Homes 5 stars on Google.
JOSE MIGUEL SAVERY HASBUN
12 Feb 2026
Rated Intelli Design Homes 5 stars on Google.
Ryan Robert
24 Feb 2026
I can't speak highly enough about Peter and his crew at Intelli Design Homes. They did a lot of work on our old villa in Herne Bay, completely changing it. They restructured the layout, added an extension, and updated everything while preserving the unique character of the home. Their level of professionalism and meticulousness was outstanding. We were always a part of the decision-making process, and the end result is just amazing. It really feels like a new house, but it still has its old charm.
Quinn Blake
12 Feb 2026
We worked with Intelli Design Homes to build our new family home in Remuera, and the experience exceeded all expectations. Jack guided us through every step, from design choices to final finishes, and his communication was outstanding. The craftsmanship is top-tier, and every detail feels carefully considered. What stood out most was how they truly listened to our ideas and made sure our vision came to life. We couldn’t be happier.
Sian K
22 Aug 2025
We have a large and growing family so we hired Intelli Design Homes to build an addition in St. Heliers. They were terrific from the very first phone call that we had all the way through completion and I so greatly appreciate that Jack made the process stress-free by keeping us updated and explaining every stage clearly. The workmanship is flawless, and the new space integrates beautifully with the existing house. We’re thrilled with the result.
SAKSHI KHAMGAONKAR
23 Mar 2026
Rated Intelli Design Homes 5 stars on Google.
JOSE MIGUEL SAVERY HASBUN
12 Feb 2026
Rated Intelli Design Homes 5 stars on Google.
Ryan Robert
24 Feb 2026
I can't speak highly enough about Peter and his crew at Intelli Design Homes. They did a lot of work on our old villa in Herne Bay, completely changing it. They restructured the layout, added an extension, and updated everything while preserving the unique character of the home. Their level of professionalism and meticulousness was outstanding. We were always a part of the decision-making process, and the end result is just amazing. It really feels like a new house, but it still has its old charm.
Quinn Blake
12 Feb 2026
We worked with Intelli Design Homes to build our new family home in Remuera, and the experience exceeded all expectations. Jack guided us through every step, from design choices to final finishes, and his communication was outstanding. The craftsmanship is top-tier, and every detail feels carefully considered. What stood out most was how they truly listened to our ideas and made sure our vision came to life. We couldn’t be happier.
Sian K
22 Aug 2025
We have a large and growing family so we hired Intelli Design Homes to build an addition in St. Heliers. They were terrific from the very first phone call that we had all the way through completion and I so greatly appreciate that Jack made the process stress-free by keeping us updated and explaining every stage clearly. The workmanship is flawless, and the new space integrates beautifully with the existing house. We’re thrilled with the result.
SAKSHI KHAMGAONKAR
23 Mar 2026
Rated Intelli Design Homes 5 stars on Google.
JOSE MIGUEL SAVERY HASBUN
12 Feb 2026
Rated Intelli Design Homes 5 stars on Google.
Ryan Robert
24 Feb 2026
I can't speak highly enough about Peter and his crew at Intelli Design Homes. They did a lot of work on our old villa in Herne Bay, completely changing it. They restructured the layout, added an extension, and updated everything while preserving the unique character of the home. Their level of professionalism and meticulousness was outstanding. We were always a part of the decision-making process, and the end result is just amazing. It really feels like a new house, but it still has its old charm.
Quinn Blake
12 Feb 2026
We worked with Intelli Design Homes to build our new family home in Remuera, and the experience exceeded all expectations. Jack guided us through every step, from design choices to final finishes, and his communication was outstanding. The craftsmanship is top-tier, and every detail feels carefully considered. What stood out most was how they truly listened to our ideas and made sure our vision came to life. We couldn’t be happier.
Sian K
22 Aug 2025
We have a large and growing family so we hired Intelli Design Homes to build an addition in St. Heliers. They were terrific from the very first phone call that we had all the way through completion and I so greatly appreciate that Jack made the process stress-free by keeping us updated and explaining every stage clearly. The workmanship is flawless, and the new space integrates beautifully with the existing house. We’re thrilled with the result.
SAKSHI KHAMGAONKAR
23 Mar 2026
Rated Intelli Design Homes 5 stars on Google.
JOSE MIGUEL SAVERY HASBUN
12 Feb 2026
Rated Intelli Design Homes 5 stars on Google.
Ryan Robert
24 Feb 2026
I can't speak highly enough about Peter and his crew at Intelli Design Homes. They did a lot of work on our old villa in Herne Bay, completely changing it. They restructured the layout, added an extension, and updated everything while preserving the unique character of the home. Their level of professionalism and meticulousness was outstanding. We were always a part of the decision-making process, and the end result is just amazing. It really feels like a new house, but it still has its old charm.
Quinn Blake
12 Feb 2026
We worked with Intelli Design Homes to build our new family home in Remuera, and the experience exceeded all expectations. Jack guided us through every step, from design choices to final finishes, and his communication was outstanding. The craftsmanship is top-tier, and every detail feels carefully considered. What stood out most was how they truly listened to our ideas and made sure our vision came to life. We couldn’t be happier.
Sian K
22 Aug 2025
We have a large and growing family so we hired Intelli Design Homes to build an addition in St. Heliers. They were terrific from the very first phone call that we had all the way through completion and I so greatly appreciate that Jack made the process stress-free by keeping us updated and explaining every stage clearly. The workmanship is flawless, and the new space integrates beautifully with the existing house. We’re thrilled with the result.
SAKSHI KHAMGAONKAR
23 Mar 2026
Rated Intelli Design Homes 5 stars on Google.
JOSE MIGUEL SAVERY HASBUN
12 Feb 2026
Rated Intelli Design Homes 5 stars on Google.
Ryan Robert
24 Feb 2026
I can't speak highly enough about Peter and his crew at Intelli Design Homes. They did a lot of work on our old villa in Herne Bay, completely changing it. They restructured the layout, added an extension, and updated everything while preserving the unique character of the home. Their level of professionalism and meticulousness was outstanding. We were always a part of the decision-making process, and the end result is just amazing. It really feels like a new house, but it still has its old charm.
Quinn Blake
12 Feb 2026
We worked with Intelli Design Homes to build our new family home in Remuera, and the experience exceeded all expectations. Jack guided us through every step, from design choices to final finishes, and his communication was outstanding. The craftsmanship is top-tier, and every detail feels carefully considered. What stood out most was how they truly listened to our ideas and made sure our vision came to life. We couldn’t be happier.
Sian K
22 Aug 2025
We have a large and growing family so we hired Intelli Design Homes to build an addition in St. Heliers. They were terrific from the very first phone call that we had all the way through completion and I so greatly appreciate that Jack made the process stress-free by keeping us updated and explaining every stage clearly. The workmanship is flawless, and the new space integrates beautifully with the existing house. We’re thrilled with the result.
SAKSHI KHAMGAONKAR
23 Mar 2026
Rated Intelli Design Homes 5 stars on Google.
JOSE MIGUEL SAVERY HASBUN
12 Feb 2026
Rated Intelli Design Homes 5 stars on Google.
JOSE MIGUEL SAVERY HASBUN
12 Feb 2026
Rated Intelli Design Homes 5 stars on Google.
SAKSHI KHAMGAONKAR
23 Mar 2026
Rated Intelli Design Homes 5 stars on Google.
Sian K
22 Aug 2025
We have a large and growing family so we hired Intelli Design Homes to build an addition in St. Heliers. They were terrific from the very first phone call that we had all the way through completion and I so greatly appreciate that Jack made the process stress-free by keeping us updated and explaining every stage clearly. The workmanship is flawless, and the new space integrates beautifully with the existing house. We’re thrilled with the result.
Quinn Blake
12 Feb 2026
We worked with Intelli Design Homes to build our new family home in Remuera, and the experience exceeded all expectations. Jack guided us through every step, from design choices to final finishes, and his communication was outstanding. The craftsmanship is top-tier, and every detail feels carefully considered. What stood out most was how they truly listened to our ideas and made sure our vision came to life. We couldn’t be happier.
Ryan Robert
24 Feb 2026
I can't speak highly enough about Peter and his crew at Intelli Design Homes. They did a lot of work on our old villa in Herne Bay, completely changing it. They restructured the layout, added an extension, and updated everything while preserving the unique character of the home. Their level of professionalism and meticulousness was outstanding. We were always a part of the decision-making process, and the end result is just amazing. It really feels like a new house, but it still has its old charm.
JOSE MIGUEL SAVERY HASBUN
12 Feb 2026
Rated Intelli Design Homes 5 stars on Google.
SAKSHI KHAMGAONKAR
23 Mar 2026
Rated Intelli Design Homes 5 stars on Google.
Sian K
22 Aug 2025
We have a large and growing family so we hired Intelli Design Homes to build an addition in St. Heliers. They were terrific from the very first phone call that we had all the way through completion and I so greatly appreciate that Jack made the process stress-free by keeping us updated and explaining every stage clearly. The workmanship is flawless, and the new space integrates beautifully with the existing house. We’re thrilled with the result.
Quinn Blake
12 Feb 2026
We worked with Intelli Design Homes to build our new family home in Remuera, and the experience exceeded all expectations. Jack guided us through every step, from design choices to final finishes, and his communication was outstanding. The craftsmanship is top-tier, and every detail feels carefully considered. What stood out most was how they truly listened to our ideas and made sure our vision came to life. We couldn’t be happier.
Ryan Robert
24 Feb 2026
I can't speak highly enough about Peter and his crew at Intelli Design Homes. They did a lot of work on our old villa in Herne Bay, completely changing it. They restructured the layout, added an extension, and updated everything while preserving the unique character of the home. Their level of professionalism and meticulousness was outstanding. We were always a part of the decision-making process, and the end result is just amazing. It really feels like a new house, but it still has its old charm.
JOSE MIGUEL SAVERY HASBUN
12 Feb 2026
Rated Intelli Design Homes 5 stars on Google.
SAKSHI KHAMGAONKAR
23 Mar 2026
Rated Intelli Design Homes 5 stars on Google.
Sian K
22 Aug 2025
We have a large and growing family so we hired Intelli Design Homes to build an addition in St. Heliers. They were terrific from the very first phone call that we had all the way through completion and I so greatly appreciate that Jack made the process stress-free by keeping us updated and explaining every stage clearly. The workmanship is flawless, and the new space integrates beautifully with the existing house. We’re thrilled with the result.
Quinn Blake
12 Feb 2026
We worked with Intelli Design Homes to build our new family home in Remuera, and the experience exceeded all expectations. Jack guided us through every step, from design choices to final finishes, and his communication was outstanding. The craftsmanship is top-tier, and every detail feels carefully considered. What stood out most was how they truly listened to our ideas and made sure our vision came to life. We couldn’t be happier.
Ryan Robert
24 Feb 2026
I can't speak highly enough about Peter and his crew at Intelli Design Homes. They did a lot of work on our old villa in Herne Bay, completely changing it. They restructured the layout, added an extension, and updated everything while preserving the unique character of the home. Their level of professionalism and meticulousness was outstanding. We were always a part of the decision-making process, and the end result is just amazing. It really feels like a new house, but it still has its old charm.
JOSE MIGUEL SAVERY HASBUN
12 Feb 2026
Rated Intelli Design Homes 5 stars on Google.
SAKSHI KHAMGAONKAR
23 Mar 2026
Rated Intelli Design Homes 5 stars on Google.
Sian K
22 Aug 2025
We have a large and growing family so we hired Intelli Design Homes to build an addition in St. Heliers. They were terrific from the very first phone call that we had all the way through completion and I so greatly appreciate that Jack made the process stress-free by keeping us updated and explaining every stage clearly. The workmanship is flawless, and the new space integrates beautifully with the existing house. We’re thrilled with the result.
Quinn Blake
12 Feb 2026
We worked with Intelli Design Homes to build our new family home in Remuera, and the experience exceeded all expectations. Jack guided us through every step, from design choices to final finishes, and his communication was outstanding. The craftsmanship is top-tier, and every detail feels carefully considered. What stood out most was how they truly listened to our ideas and made sure our vision came to life. We couldn’t be happier.
Ryan Robert
24 Feb 2026
I can't speak highly enough about Peter and his crew at Intelli Design Homes. They did a lot of work on our old villa in Herne Bay, completely changing it. They restructured the layout, added an extension, and updated everything while preserving the unique character of the home. Their level of professionalism and meticulousness was outstanding. We were always a part of the decision-making process, and the end result is just amazing. It really feels like a new house, but it still has its old charm.
JOSE MIGUEL SAVERY HASBUN
12 Feb 2026
Rated Intelli Design Homes 5 stars on Google.
SAKSHI KHAMGAONKAR
23 Mar 2026
Rated Intelli Design Homes 5 stars on Google.
Sian K
22 Aug 2025
We have a large and growing family so we hired Intelli Design Homes to build an addition in St. Heliers. They were terrific from the very first phone call that we had all the way through completion and I so greatly appreciate that Jack made the process stress-free by keeping us updated and explaining every stage clearly. The workmanship is flawless, and the new space integrates beautifully with the existing house. We’re thrilled with the result.
Quinn Blake
12 Feb 2026
We worked with Intelli Design Homes to build our new family home in Remuera, and the experience exceeded all expectations. Jack guided us through every step, from design choices to final finishes, and his communication was outstanding. The craftsmanship is top-tier, and every detail feels carefully considered. What stood out most was how they truly listened to our ideas and made sure our vision came to life. We couldn’t be happier.
Ryan Robert
24 Feb 2026
I can't speak highly enough about Peter and his crew at Intelli Design Homes. They did a lot of work on our old villa in Herne Bay, completely changing it. They restructured the layout, added an extension, and updated everything while preserving the unique character of the home. Their level of professionalism and meticulousness was outstanding. We were always a part of the decision-making process, and the end result is just amazing. It really feels like a new house, but it still has its old charm.
JOSE MIGUEL SAVERY HASBUN
12 Feb 2026
Rated Intelli Design Homes 5 stars on Google.
SAKSHI KHAMGAONKAR
23 Mar 2026
Rated Intelli Design Homes 5 stars on Google.
Sian K
22 Aug 2025
We have a large and growing family so we hired Intelli Design Homes to build an addition in St. Heliers. They were terrific from the very first phone call that we had all the way through completion and I so greatly appreciate that Jack made the process stress-free by keeping us updated and explaining every stage clearly. The workmanship is flawless, and the new space integrates beautifully with the existing house. We’re thrilled with the result.
Quinn Blake
12 Feb 2026
We worked with Intelli Design Homes to build our new family home in Remuera, and the experience exceeded all expectations. Jack guided us through every step, from design choices to final finishes, and his communication was outstanding. The craftsmanship is top-tier, and every detail feels carefully considered. What stood out most was how they truly listened to our ideas and made sure our vision came to life. We couldn’t be happier.
Ryan Robert
24 Feb 2026
I can't speak highly enough about Peter and his crew at Intelli Design Homes. They did a lot of work on our old villa in Herne Bay, completely changing it. They restructured the layout, added an extension, and updated everything while preserving the unique character of the home. Their level of professionalism and meticulousness was outstanding. We were always a part of the decision-making process, and the end result is just amazing. It really feels like a new house, but it still has its old charm.
What To Expect
What Happens At Your Free Consult
1We Walk Your Site
One of our builders meets you on-site to see the land, the existing home, and anything that could affect cost or buildability.
2We Talk Through Your Vision
Bring your ideas, inspiration, or early sketches — we'll talk through what matters most and where there's room to flex.
3You Get A Real Cost Range
No guesswork — a rough estimate and budget scope for your project before you commit.
4You Decide, No Pressure
Take the numbers away and think it over. There's no obligation to move forward until you're ready.
“Every project you've seen on this page started the same way this one did — with a conversation before a single wall went up.”
Included With Every Consult
Two Resources, Free
Project Planner
A step-by-step guide through your build — from inspiration and financing to selections, handover, and move-in.
Selections Checklist
Every material and fixture decision in one place, so you can lock in what you want before construction starts.
Limited Availability
Avoid Getting Stuck With A House Of Horrors — Make Your Dream Home Come True
Free Design & Build ConsultationDo you want to take the doubt and uncertainty out of your construction? And instead, have financial security and peace of mind every step of the process until the final brick is laid?
Then you can have a FREE Design & Build Consultation. One of our team will go to your site, walk around the property with you, and advise you on where things should go, what it should look like, and other important details.
As we only work with select clients, there are only limited slots available per month.
Get My Instant Estimate Result NowSchedule yours now and have your dream home without facing financial hardship and despair.