Patrick Chamberlain
Civil Engineer
Patrick has always been driven by a need to make a difference.
Not long out of secondary school and studying engineering when the devastating earthquakes hit in 2010 and 2011, he was keen to roll up his sleeves and contribute to the recovery. But with an overflow of graduates thianking the same way, opportunities were slim. So, on a whim - and wanting to stay in the city where he was born - Patrick and his younger brother opened a café.
After several successful years in the hospitality business, the engineering world came knocking. Ready for a new challenge, he returned to the profession. Apart from a short stint on the West Coast of the South Island, Patrick has spent his life in Christchurch, and that is where his heart is.
He’s keen to see the city continue to grow as the recovery progresses. And now, after joining Envelope in 2025, he can enjoy making a difference from the Christchurch office. His role as civil engineer is broad and varied, covering construction project and contract management, design, and coordination with councils, clients, subbies, other designers, and contractors.
Outside of work, Patrick is a busy family man with more house and garden home projects on the go than he can count. And getting outdoors in Aotearoa is a must for him – whether mountain biking, skiing, or heading to the bach for a break.
He keeps fuelled up on coffee or craft beer, depending on the time of day or mood. A cheeky gin or fine red wine also make the cut, especially when relaxing with family or friends.
One thing that truly resonated with him about\ Envelope was the authenticity of the business, and it’s commitment to making a difference by doing things different.
“They hugely value the people, and that makes a world of difference when it comes to getting the job done.”
So it feels good to be hands-on, helping Christchurch continue to rise as a mighty city. Just don’t ask him what his current priority DIY project is…
