PEOPLE

MARTIN VARNEY
Director
M.Arch Reg.Architect ANZIA
Martin is Director of MAKE Architects and Registered Architect with over 20yrs experience in the architecture and construction sector. Specialist areas include community & public architectural commissions within the practice, and high end residential developments. Martin has extensive experience in community engagement processes involving Local Boards, and has been engaged to provide creative solutions for various community facilities. Primary responsibilities as design/project architect he takes projects from conceptual design through to administration and completion. Martin has successfully delivered a number of award winning projects for various clients and the Auckland Council.

KENNETH SIN
Director
B.Arch BAS (Hons)
Kenneth has been practising architecture for 15 years since graduating from Architecture School at Auckland University.  His work is inspired by a passion for design clarity.  His philosophy is that Architecture is complex, but a well considered solution produces simplicity and legibility. His approach to design is always creative thinking to project specific requirements and his architecture centres around people as the end users.  Kenneth also has a passion for engaging communities. He is co-founder of a Community Trust working with teenage youth in South Auckland.  He enjoys collaboration in the process of developing design and social solutions.

MARK YONG
Senior Architectural Designer
B.Arch BBSC
Mark’s work draws from over 10 years of architectural practice ranging from educational, commercial and high end residential projects. His project work shows a consideration for the transition of light and juxtaposition of materiality throughout. Mark treats documentation as a design project in its own right, it is his belief that design collaboration throughout the process with both client and most especially other disciplines and contractors leads to a successfully delivered and considered design. 

GRACE TOLLEY
Architectural Graduate
M.Arch (Prof) (Hons)
Grace joined MAKE in 2015, following the completion of her Masters of Architecture degree at the University of Auckland. Her thesis focused on the regeneration of forgotten historical spaces, and her passion for heritage architecture continues to be a significant influence, as well as an enthusiasm for materiality, texture and colour. Since joining MAKE, Grace has expanded her skill set, gaining experience in documentation and CAD.

JENNIFER GAO
Architectural Graduate
M.Arch (Prof) (Hons)
Jen joined MAKE in 2019, after working in interior design and previously tutoring at the University of Auckland where she completed her Masters of Architecture degree. Her thesis focused on hand drawing, watercolours, model making and conceptual writing based on architectural feminist theories. Jen continues to expand her skills in architecture through a love of interior design, materiality, theory and objects. She also explores these concepts through her independent ceramics business.