About Us

Our Company

For almost 25 years, LifeStyle Architectural Services has been at the forefront of innovative design across New Zealand.

Specializing in a wide range of projects but we have solidified our position as the leading ECE designer in New Zealand with in excess of 500+ childcare centres which include brands such as,  Magic Kingdom Childcare,  Hand and Hand ELC,  Happy Learning Childcare,  Our Kids ELC,  Aspirations Early learning centre,Beststart Educare,  ABC childcare,  All about Children childcare,  Go Bananas Childcare,  Choice Kids, Rainbow Corner Childcare,  Vintage Kids,  Creative Garden Early Learning Centre, The Village ELC, Bumblebees Whitford, Young World Childcare,  School of Fish,  Your Place Childcare,  Lollipops ELC,  Kia Kids and so many more.

 

We also specialize in residential, multi-unit, and medium-sized commercial projects, our expertise also extends to thoughtful renovations and additions. We provide a seamless journey from initial concept to council liaison and site observation, ensuring a comprehensive service.

With a commitment to quality and a nationwide reach, LifeStyle Architectural Services transforms visions into reality, creating stunning and functional spaces for a diverse clientele.

 

Why use LAS for ECE Design ?

 

  • Massive Sector Experience: LAS has specialized in ECE for nearly 30 years and has completed 500+ centres across New Zealand, ranging from 30 to 150 licenses.
  • Operational Efficiency: Our design philosophy focuses on practical centres that are easy to run from an operational standpoint.
  • Maximising Site Potential: Clients comment on our ability to maximise space utilisation without compromising the look and ambience of the building.
  • Regulatory Navigation: We are highly regarded for managing the Resource Consent process and navigating childcare regulations to ensure the best chance of council approval.
  • Seamless Integration: We collaborates with consultants like Establish ECE to provide a full-service approach from feasibility to Ministry of Education liaison.
  • Broad Industry Knowledge: Beyond architecture, we have outstanding knowledge in licensing, fire, acoustics, and traffic requirements specific to ECE

Why use LAS for Residential Design ?

 

  • Bespoke "Life-Stage" Design: We are known for interpreting complex briefs, such as creating homes for intergenerational living while remaining low-maintenance.
  • Space & Budget Optimization: We excel at maximising space utilisation without compromising the look and ambience, often delivering "stunning" designs that remain cost-effective.
  • Award-Winning Aesthetics: Our residential work includes award-winning architecture, such as beachfront properties in Whangamata that feature cantilevered stairs and flexible indoor-outdoor flow.
  • Regulatory Experts: We are particularly effective if you have a challenging site (e.g., sloping blocks or infill housing) because of our deep experience with Resource Consents and council liaison.
  • Developer-Trusted Quality: Many group builders and developers use us for their showhomes because we produce highly accurate plans that are easy for builders to follow, reducing construction delays.

 

Our Team

About

Dayle Beuth

Director / ECE Specialist

LinkedIn Profile

Email Dayle Beuth


I have been active in the building sector for over 30 years, during which time I have worked as a senior designer before co-founding LifeStyle Architectural Services in 2002. Developing a passion for the ECE sector early on in my career and believed that ECE could be designed to be more functional, with more focus on the childrens experience. To date, I have designed more than 500 childcare centres across New Zealand and with 30 years’ experience would likely be the most experienced ECE designer in the country. This experience has provided me with a comprehensive understanding of the specific architectural and regulatory requirements unique to the ECE sector. Dealing with a range of clients ranging from large developers, investors and smaller owner operators.

My design philosophy is centered on the creation of "child-centered" environments. I aim to produce spaces that are aesthetically stylish while remaining operationally practical for the staff and children who utilize them. I believe that an effective design must balance the daily functional needs of an educational facility with an atmosphere that is conducive to learning and development. My portfolio in this area is diverse, ranging from small, boutique centers to large-scale facilities equipped for up to 150 licenses.

I am a Licensed Building Practitioner (LBP) and a professional member of Architectural Designers New Zealand (ADNZ). These qualifications reflect my commitment to maintaining industry standards and staying current with the evolving practices of architectural design in New Zealand. My professional background ensures that all projects I undertake are handled with a high degree of technical proficiency.

While Early Childhood Education remains a primary focus of my career, my firm also manages a broad range of other projects. My experience extends to residential design, multi-unit developments, and various commercial projects. This broader work allows me to apply a wide array of design principles and construction methodologies across different sectors of the building industry.

I believe I bring to the table an understanding of the ECE sector that only 30 years experience can offer in terms of design and practicality for the operator while also having an appreciation for what a developer or investor may require to make the project a success.  These are all considerations during an ECE development.

About

Bert De Graaf

Director / Technical Manager

LinkedIn Profile

Email Bert De Graaf


My background is in designing homes with some of New Zealand’s leading home builders, and working on a variety of commercial projects. This has given me the skills as founding director to provide our clients with the top customer service and excellent design that LifeStyle Architectural Services has become known for over the past 17 years. I live in the foothills of the beautiful Waitakere Ranges with my wife and two children, and draw inspiration for my work from the natural environment around us. As a family we enjoy making the most of everything this area has to offer with bush walks and beaches on our doorstep. I also enjoy fishing up the coast with my friends, and travelling around New Zealand and beyond.

About

Scott Allen

Partner

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Scott joined Lifestyle Architectural Services in 2012, with a strong technical and management background I have developed my design skills to complete award winning residential projects. I enjoy spending quality time with my family in Matakana, where the beach, markets and cafés are close by.