Residential

David Todd designs custom homes that reflect each client’s lifestyle, vision and budget — starting with a careful assessment of the Nelson Tasman site’s topography, sun, access and views. Through detailed conversations and a clear design brief, David develops house plans that balance creativity with practical needs, always tailored to the unique site and project goals. Optional full‑colour perspectives can bring your new home design to life before you build, and once approved, David prepares final construction documents. For complete peace of mind, he can also manage the building contract and provide site observation throughout your custom home build or renovation.

Why Work with David Todd?

Local knowledge you can trust

David understands the unique conditions of the Nelson Tasman region — from site orientation and climate to council requirements — and designs residential spaces that fit naturally with the landscape and local community.

Personalised, collaborative process

Every custom home build or renovation starts with listening. David takes time to explore your vision, lifestyle and budget, then develops house plans and design solutions that truly feel like home.

Award-winning design thinking

With multiple design awards, David’s work is recognised for combining creativity and style with practical, buildable solutions suited to local conditions.

End-to-end support

From early sketches and residential architectural design concepts to consent documentation — and even managing your build if required — David offers a seamless, stress‑free design journey.

Designing Your Ideal Home

A selection of custom-designed homes that reflect each client’s brief, site, and lifestyle — brought to life with care, creativity, and over 40 years of experience.

Holmden Bach

A secluded, custom-designed retreat nestled in native bush — simple, thoughtful architecture made to sit lightly on the land.

View through open black shuttered windows showing trees, water, and hills in the distance with a wooden deck in the foreground.
Modern architecturally designed black house with large glass sliding doors surrounded by dense green trees and bushes, with a wooden deck and steps leading down to a gravel area.
Modern architecturally designed kitchen with dark cabinetry, a central island with two wooden barstools, large sliding glass door leading to outdoor deck, and a window overlooking greenery.

Brougham Street

A contemporary new build designed for urban living — making the most of a compact site with smart spatial planning, clean lines, and a light-filled, low-maintenance layout tailored to modern life.

Modern house entrance, architecturally designed with green door, white walls, wooden deck, black railing, and upper balcony with white vertical slats, blue sky, and palm tree reflections
Modern bathroom architecturally designed renovation with a white vanity, oval vessel sink, large mirror, and a walk-in shower with glass partition.
Modern architecturally designed single-story house with a sloped roof, white exterior walls, stone fence, and lush tropical plants including palm trees in front.

Hoddy Road House

A refined country residence positioned to embrace vineyard views and sun — combining clean lines, natural materials, and a strong connection to the landscape.

Close-up of a modern architecturally designed house  house with a stone pillar support, wooden paneling, a glass door, and a dark-colored roof under a partly cloudy sky.
Modern architecturally designed house with a landscaped front yard, stone pillars, large glass windows, and a sloped roof, under a partly cloudy sky.
Spacious living room with large windows showing a scenic outdoor view, a black grand piano, a white armchair, a round glass dining table surrounded by eight patterned chairs, and decorative ceiling lights.

Rae House

A modern new build designed to suit its site and surroundings, Rae House features open-plan living, strong indoor-outdoor flow, and a clean, contemporary aesthetic — delivering comfort, simplicity, and lasting function.

2013 ADNZ Resene Architectural Design Awards Nelson Marlborough Regional Winner

Modern kitchen with white cabinets, stainless steel refrigerator, and kitchen island with two white bar stools, overlooking a backyard with grass and trees.
Modern house with gray exterior, attached garage, small deck with outdoor dining table, surrounded by landscaped yard and trees.
Modern house with large windows and balcony, situated on a hillside with autumn trees and rocks in the foreground.

Ready to discuss your project? Let’s talk