Sharlene (Shar) is a Senior Architect based in DGSE’s Queenstown studio, working from both Queenstown and Cromwell. With qualifications in architecture and interiors across New Zealand and Australia, she brings extensive expertise across all project phases, from feasibility and masterplanning through to detailed design, consent documentation, and construction delivery.

Shar developed particular strengths while leading a complex large-scale remediation project in Queenstown, where she navigated challenging stakeholder relationships, coordinated remote consultant teams, and adapted delivery strategies to evolving project conditions. Her collaborative and pragmatic approach enables strong outcomes across technically and commercially demanding projects.

Her portfolio spans high-end residential, multi-residential, hospitality, education, healthcare, and aged care sectors. With a strong understanding of the relationship between architecture and interiors, she focuses on material quality, spatial clarity, and cohesive design resolution from overall form through to detailed execution.

Between working and family commitments, Shar also completed her own home in Cromwell in collaboration with her builder brother, a project recognised with an NZIA Regional Award for Small Projects. This hands-on experience further reinforced her practical, delivery-focused approach and strong work ethic.

Overall, Shar is motivated by architecture’s ability to connect people to place and foster meaningful interaction within homes, workplaces, and communities.