Our Story

Hi, Chris Alexander here!

Born and raised in Blenheim, I grew up surrounded by the building industry. My father, Andrew Pope, has spent more than 30 years building and managing residential construction companies throughout Marlborough, including his own business, APH Design & Build. Before him, my grandfather, Graham Pope, was a builder and founding director of GMP Construction, helping shape Marlborough's building industry from the 1960s through to his retirement in the late 1990s.

While construction has always been part of my family's story, my own path took a slightly different route. After spending eight years working throughout Marlborough and Western Australia in the wine industry, I joined APH in 2019 and began developing my skills in residential design and drafting.

From the beginning, my role combined both drafting and hands on construction. This unique experience has allowed me to spend as much time on site as I have behind a computer, developing not only an understanding of design principles, aesthetics, and functionality, but also a practical appreciation for how homes are built in the real world.

Over the years, I have worked on a wide range of residential projects, from standard family homes and renovations through to housing developments and bespoke multi-million dollar homes. Whether a project presents challenges through site conditions, complex design requirements, or client aspirations, I enjoy working collaboratively to find practical, thoughtful solutions that bring ideas to life.

Today, Morai reflects the values that have shaped my approach from the beginning. Thoughtful design, clear communication, attention to detail, and creating homes that are both beautiful and practical for everyday living.

Draftsman & Architectural designer, Blenheim, Marlborough, New Zealand