Architecture shaped by land and lifestyle in Nelson, Tasman and Golden Bays
Welcome to Bell Stephenson Architects
At Bell Stephenson, you work directly with two principal architects who bring more than 60+ years of combined experience and a genuine commitment to understanding you, your site and the dream you want to build there.
Through conversation and contextual insight, Gabrielle and Andrew shape early ideas into a cohesive, and eco-driven architectural vision.
This is architecture shaped with intention. Informed by energy-efficient principles, future-focused performance and decades of experience across Nelson, Tasman and the wider New Zealand landscape.
Featured Architectural Projects
From new homes to a brewery, we design innovative residential, renovation, commercial and education architecture across coastal and rural sites. Carefully shaped by landscape, climate and purpose, for all types of visions and budgets.
Architectural Services in Nelson, Tasman Region
Resilient, sustainable architecture guided by permaculture principles and expert experience.
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Bespoke homes designed for the climate, contours and character of your site. We create refined, functional spaces that support your lifestyle and connect seamlessly with the landscape.
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Transformations that renew flow, function and connection to place. From reworking key living areas to full extensions, we create spaces that feel refreshed, cohesive and purposeful.
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Architectural designs for business, hospitality and accommodation, designed for durability and a distinct identity. We create environments for business and building owners that welcome, support and inspire.
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Purpose-built spaces for schools wanting to improve their educational facilities and environments. Designed to enhance learning, improve flow and feel grounded in their community for future generations.
Our approach centres on listening first, providing innovative design and consistent guidance throughout the process.
From the initial conversation through to detailed design and construction observation, you work directly with Gabrielle and Andrew, our NZIA-registered principal architects. Our consistent leadership maintains design integrity, clear communication and a grounded, collaborative process.
Rooted in regional knowledge and permaculture-informed thinking, our approach ensures every project is guided by intention and context.
➤ 12+ Years in Practice Together
➤ 50+ Residential Projects
➤ Nelson | Tasman | Golden Bay | & Wider New Zealand
➤ Registered NZIA architects
Meet the Architects
Led by Gabrielle Bell and Andrew Stephenson, Bell Stephenson Architects blends sustainable values, permaculture thinking and decades of design experience. Our work across homes, renovations and community spaces reflects an approach that is personal, grounded and attuned to its landscape.
Ready to begin your architectural journey?
Share your vision with us and we’ll help shape a clear path to designing and realising your project.
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My husband and I were so fortunate to have Bell Stephenson as our architect for our new residential build; they made the process simple and thoroughly enjoyable by providing clear communication, guidance, and creative expertise. We would absolutely and unequivocally collaborate with them again and have already referred them to close friends.
— Jason and Wendy Benwell
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We engaged Bell Stephenson to build our new house and were amazed that after just one meeting, they had a concept plan that was perfect and needed no modification. They were friendly, approachable, offered valued suggestions, kept our project within budget, and delivered a fabulous home that is everything we wanted.
— Sandra Hobbs
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Gabrielle Bell of Bell Stephenson Architects provided concept and working drawings for an Early Childhood Education Centre in Motueka. Her expert guidance, research, and attention to detail ensured our Resource and Building Consents were accepted without delay, and their approachable, professional team made communication easy while keeping the design on track with our budget.
— Wendy Whitehead