About
I am an architect, interior designer and design writer based in mountains of Valais, Switzerland.
I craft buildings and spaces in expansive natural landscapes and cities across the globe, from the Swiss Alps to the coastlines of New Zealand and the rolling foothills of Catalonia.
My approach to each project is grounded in place, craft and atmosphere. With an emphasis on stillness and connection to nature, I create spaces that support calmness by slowing down and enriching everyday life. Bringing together raw, local materials and a refined sense of proportion, I imbue each project with a soft, humble elegance.
I take on projects that offer an opportunity to connect with and learn from the local history, craftsmanship and landscape, from private homes and retreats to farmhouse restorations and boutique hotels. I find deep enjoyment in working alongside clients and collaborators who share an environmentally considerate and optimistic vision of what living, working, and playing can look like, and who are ready to enjoy the architecture journey together.
Services
I offer architectural design and delivery of both residential and commercial projects, ranging from private residences and renovations, to adaptive reuse for workplace, retail and boutique hotel and hospitality projects. From feasibility and masterplanning to design direction and interior selections, I bring a holistic vision and nimbleness across different project scales.
I work on projects across the globe, with current projects in Switzerland, Spain and New Zealand. Whether a project is big or small, near or far, my process is designed to facilitate a smooth, enjoyable journey from concept to completion. As the projects I take on are often highly unique, I work with my clients one-on-one to understand their brief and priorities, offering flexible modes of working together to achieve the best outcome for the project.
Outside New Zealand and Switzerland, I often work in a design-lead role in collaboration with local architects or drafting teams, who are responsible for planning permissions, project documentation and construction delivery.
Memberships
Swiss Society of Engineers and Architects (SIA 532862)
New Zealand Registered Architect (NZRAB 5590)
New Zealand Institute of Architects (NZIA)
Awards
Silver Medal, Residential Architecture
for House at Sailors Grave
Best Design Awards New Zealand 2022Presidents Award
for Services to Architecture - Portico Website
New Zealand Institute of Architects 2017
PROFeSSIONAL BIO
Born in Wellington, New Zealand, I graduated from Victoria University of Wellington in 2012, with a Masters of Architecture (Professional). I also spent time studying at the Ecole Spéciale d’Architecture (Paris, 2010), and with the Architectural Association (Summer School, Paris - 2018).
In New Zealand, I spent a formative five years honing my design approach with Fearon Hay Architects, as Design and Project Team Leader on a range of local and international projects.
After relocating to Europe, I spent two years leading commercial and residential projects for Oppenheim Architecture Europe in Basel, Switzerland. I developed a nuanced understanding of European planning, construction and project management on large-scale projects while working in English, French and German.
In 2019, like many others, I found myself working from home. During this time, the importance of open landscapes, calm spaces and the simple, material rhythms of life was heightened for me. I recognised that focusing on these aspects, and intertwining architecture more deeply with my daily life, could offer a more creative and fulfilling practice. This formed the basis for founding Sophie Hamer Architecture in the mountains of Valais in 2021.
Teaching
Alongside my professional practice, I have taught at both Victoria University of Wellington and University of Auckland. I maintain connection with academia through research, teaching, and acting as a guest critic. In 2015 I founded Portico.space, a website supporting aspiring architects on their journeys into architecture.
Writing
Working on a commission basis, I offer design writing services relating to architecture, interiors, furniture and objects. Ranging from travel reports and research-based stories, to thought pieces, I enjoy approaching the design field from another angle, crafting narratives through words and photographs.