Studio
Design Studio
ĀKAU projects have whānau and tamariki at their heart. Our creative and hands-on process ensures that hāpori needs and aspirations are at the centre of our mahi, from start to finish. We work on community projects across scales, from large masterplans, to papakāinga, marae, public, interior spaces and mahi toi.
Learn more about us
Our Process
ĀKAU uses a creative process to help conceptualise ideas, needs and aspirations with whānau for community projects. We explore what whānau want to see in their community, and their whakaaro become the foundation for the design moving forward.
1
Aspirational Brief Building
Brief-building Papamahi (Workshops) facilitated by the ĀKAU team ensure tamariki and whānau voices are heard when developing a brief for community projects. Our facilitators are all skilled in helping taitamariki and whānau identify and communicate their whakaaro through a fun, creative process.
2
Whānau Concept Design
In these creative, hands-on papamahi facilitated by the ĀKAU team, whānau and taitamariki develop their own design concepts for community projects. Our team of facilitators are all skilled in helping whānau work through the design process, have knowledge of Te Ao Māori and how to utilize this when working with hapori.
3
Design / Whakahoahoa
Design development by the ĀKAU network of creative professionals! Once we have a whānau-led brief and/or concept, we develop a design that’s right for the community. ĀKAU has strong relationships with other professionals within Te Tai Tokerau and beyond, who we will bring on board to provide specialist expertise. We love collaborating with other organisations or studios too.