About Us

We build and design

  •  interiors
  •  small homes
  •  furniture
  •  better ways to live
  •  interiors
  •  small homes
  •  furniture
  •  better ways to live

Homewerk was founded in 2022 by Oliver Starr and Sammy-Rose Scapens—partners in life and in practice. With over a decade of experience in building and project management, Oliver leads construction with a focus on precision and longevity. Sammy-Rose brings ten years of experience across architecture and storytelling, shaping how each home not only looks, but feels to live in.

We draw from New Zealand’s rich design heritage, inspired by architects like John Scott and Rewi Thompson, who created spaces in dialogue with land, community, and daily life. Scott approached form as an expression of belonging—technically sound, but deeply human. Thompson drew from Māori perspectives, embracing natural materials that return to the earth.

We’re also influenced by Aotearoa’s 1960s-era state homes—built with good bones, honest materials, and an intention to endure. Internationally, we look to Charlotte Perriand, who saw design not as ornament, but as a force for wellbeing.

These ideas continue to shape our own philosophy: homes as living structures—humble, enduring, and deeply connected to place.