Wiggins Project: From Concept to Completion
Our Philosophy & Process
At UFA, we take a holistic approach to design — rooted in collaboration, clear communication and a strong sense of place. Each project is unique, shaped by your vision, site and values. From concept to completion, we embed sustainability and usability into every step, working closely with you to create thoughtful, enduring architecture.
The Studio
Urbanfunction [UFA] is a design-led studio based in Christchurch, New Zealand, with an active presence and proven experience delivering projects across the South Island — including Queenstown, Wanaka, Nelson and Canterbury. We bring together diverse expertise to deliver thoughtful, context-driven architecture across Aotearoa and beyond.
Founded by Design Director Aaron Jones, UFA is shaped by 25 years of industry experience across Aotearoa, Australia and the UK. Aaron’s background spans high-end residential and commercial architecture, urban design, large-scale housing and complex technical detailing — informed by time in Melbourne, London and throughout New Zealand.
Our continued work in the Southern Lakes and Tasman regions reflects a commitment to designing architecture that responds to each site’s unique character, landscape and potential. Whether you're planning a home, commercial space or community project, we’re here to help bring your vision to life — with clarity, care and craft.
Service & Expertise
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Urbanfunction delivers considered commercial design — from adaptive reuse and boutique accommodation to mixed-use developments and workplace spaces. We shape architecture that balances operational needs with design clarity, long-term performance and environmental care. Through close collaboration and deep understanding of your business, we craft spaces that work, adapt and endure.
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Urbanfunction are specialists in hillside architecture and small-home design, with a proven track record of delivering refined, site-responsive homes. From complex slopes to compact urban sites, we work across all terrain and budgets — shaping residential architecture that feels grounded, sculptural and enduring.
Every project is tailored to site, brief and context, with a collaborative process that ensures clarity from concept to completion.
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Urbanfunction brings care and clarity to the renovation and restoration of residential and commercial buildings — from subtle alterations to full transformations. We specialise in restoring heritage homes and structures, blending historical integrity with contemporary design to create sustainable, future-ready outcomes.
Whether revitalising a single space or reimagining an entire property, our approach is tailored, respectful and grounded in craft.
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We believe sustainability isn’t a trend — it’s a responsibility. This principle underpins everything we do. At Urbanfunction, we design for longevity, comfort and environmental care — not just through add-ons like solar panels, but through smarter planning, passive strategies and long-term thinking.
We advocate for high-performance and passive house principles where possible, while recognising that true sustainability is about balance — between performance, cost, site and lived experience. From siting and orientation to material choices and adaptability, we work to embed sustainable thinking into every project in ways that are thoughtful, achievable and enduring.
Mark Davies
“Aaron and Anne at Urbanfunction were a pleasure to deal with. They listened carefully to our brief and our ideas and produced a design well beyond our expectations. They were flexible, accommodating and extremely practical with their approach, and we would recommend them to anyone considering a new build.”