NIC BALLARA

Nic Ballara is a highly accomplished and New Zealand registered architect (NZRAB) with over 23 years of professional practice. A member of the New Zealand Institute of Architects (NZIA), Nic founded The Poneke Co in 2020, reflecting his growing commitment to modular housing solutions. This direction combines innovative design with pragmatic execution, aimed at addressing Aotearoa's housing challenges.

 

Nic’s career spans a diverse range of roles and accomplishments. He has led projects as an architect, modular housing specialist, and design innovator, with expertise in tackling complex and high-profile builds. His work showcases mastery in modular construction and Design for Manufacture and Assembly (DfMA), developing repeatable housing prototypes that integrate efficiency, aesthetics, and cost-effectiveness.

 

A key highlight of his portfolio, the “45 Degree House," featured on Grand Designs NZ, epitomises Nic’s ability to deliver bold solutions for challenging sites. This project utilised rock anchors and steel cables to create a suspended residence on a steep Wellington slope, blending structural ingenuity with elegant architecture. This success cemented Nic’s reputation as a visionary architect who thrives on complexity and inspires confidence in innovative solutions for New Zealand’s unique topography.

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Nic’s expertise extends to infill housing, multi-unit developments, and high-end prefabrication. He works collaboratively with funders, engineers, and manufacturers to overcome logistical, regulatory, and budgetary challenges. Notable modular projects include offshore-manufactured apartments and duplex designs optimised for urban infill, exemplifying his skill in adapting traditional architecture for cutting-edge modular construction technologies.

 

Deeply influenced by his education at Victoria University of Wellington and early architectural experiences, Nic credits a lecture by Sir Ian Athfield on public space design with shaping his architectural philosophy. He maintains a strong commitment to sustainability, innovation, and community-focused outcomes. Known for his collaborative and diplomatic approach, he navigates disputes and project complexities with professionalism, ensuring high-quality results that align with client goals and budgetary constraints.

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Outside of managing the practice, Nic draws inspiration from diverse experiences, whether running along Wellington’s scenic trails, surfing New Zealand’s iconic beaches, or enjoying culinary adventures with his wife. These experiences shape our practice, fostering a culture of creativity, curiosity, and connection.

 

Nic envisioned The Pōneke Company as a practice that leads New Zealand’s modular housing sector, leveraging technical mastery and design ingenuity to deliver scalable, sustainable solutions for evolving housing needs.