KRISTIAN DEIANOV
Architectural Designer
I’m an architectural designer with over seven years of industry experience across New Zealand and Australia, working on projects ranging from residential and mixed-use developments through to commercial and public infrastructure.
I studied at Unitec Institute of Technology in Auckland, completing both my Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Architecture. My professional career began at TRG in 2018, before joining Ignite Architects in 2021 and later making the move across the Tasman to Australia, where I joined MODE in 2022.
Moving to Australia was a deliberate step outside my comfort zone. I wanted greater opportunity to develop professionally, take on more responsibility and see how far I could push myself. Since then, my role has progressed from primarily supporting project teams to leading projects, coordinating consultants and becoming increasingly involved in the decisions that shape how a project is designed and delivered.
My Approach
What I enjoy most about architecture is the process of seeing an idea gradually become something real.
There is a particular satisfaction in reaching the later stages of a project, when months… or sometimes years of drawings, discussions, coordination and problem solving begin to translate into a built outcome. Architecture is never the work of one person, and some of the projects I’m most proud of are those where a strong team has worked together towards a wonderful result.
I naturally gravitate towards the technical side of architecture. I have a logical and practical way of thinking and enjoy understanding how buildings are put together, resolving details and finding solutions where design intent, construction and real-world constraints meet.
Looking Ahead
Originally from Bulgaria, my next chapter will bring me back to Europe and closer to family after many years living abroad.
Professionally, I don’t see that move as an end point. I want to continue developing as an architectural professional, broaden my experience and keep learning from the people and projects around me. Whether that eventually leads to registration and my own practice, or to a leadership role within an established studio, the goal is much the same… to keep improving and take on increasingly meaningful responsibility.
Beyond Architecture
Outside the studio, I’m usually doing something hands-on.
Cars and motorsport have been a long standing interest of mine and give me an outlet to work practically. Building, repairing, modifying and understanding how things work. The same tendency tends to follow me home, where I’m rarely far from a renovation, improvement or small project that needs doing.
More recently, I’ve also begun exploring business development, which has given me another perspective on the relationship between design, clients and the commercial side of practice.