Earlier this year, Capana Group emerged onto the industry stage, signalling a transformative moment for our company, formerly known as FNC Designs. This rebranding reflects not only our evolution as a growing company but also our aspirations for the future as a leader in sustainability and innovation.
Humble Beginnings
The story of Capana Group began with our founder Francisco Carbajal, a passionate advocate for sustainability in the built environment. During his academic journey, Francisco focused on Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and its impacts on residential design. His thesis laid the foundation for eventually establishing FNC Designs, which initially operated as a client-facing firm focused on architectural projects, particularly on Waiheke Island.
In 2020, we opened our first office at the Gallery in Ostend, Waiheke.
Image: First office known as 'the gallery' with Francisco Carbajal, 2020
Under the banner of FNC Designs, we began testing early iterations of LCAlink, a proprietary tool developed to simplify and promote LCA in architectural practice. Although ‘FNC Designs’ served its purpose during these formative years, the name, derived from Francisco’s initials, didn’t fully reflect our company’s growing ambitions or collaborative ethos.
The Transition to Capana Group
The decision to rebrand was a natural progression as we expanded our services and influence. Over time, ‘FNC Designs’ evolved from a modest architectural practice into a multifaceted organisation actively involved in research, consulting, and collaboration with universities and industry leaders.
Image: Second office located on Waiheke Island with Francisco Carbajal, 2021
The name "Capana" was carefully chosen to represent our dual focus on connection and sustainability. In Amazonian culture, a capana is a tool used to weave fabric tightly, symbolising collaboration and strength. Additionally, its Latin meaning, “small hut,” reflects our company’s architectural roots.
This change marked a turning point. The addition of “Group” to the name underscores the expanded scope of our company, which now offers expertise in project consulting, architectural services, research projects, carbon assessments, and peer reviews. The rebrand also aligns with our commitment to making sustainability accessible through tools like LCAlink, which we provide freely to the industry.
An Industry-Facing Presence
Capana Group’s evolution has not only broadened our offerings but also our role in shaping industry discussions. What began as a client-focused operation has transformed into an organisation at the forefront of sustainability, fostering collaboration across sectors.
Image: LCAlink official launch at the new office in Eden Terrace with Francisco Carbajal, Harry Lee and Benjamin Somerville, 2023
LCAlink remains central to our company’s mission. By offering the tool free of charge, we hope to demonstrate our commitment to empowering the industry with accessible solutions for tackling climate challenges. The tool continues to be refined, with an emphasis on innovation and practicality.
Looking Ahead
Despite the strides made, Capana Group acknowledges the urgency of the climate crisis and the need to accelerate progress. Strategic investments in resources and time are expected to drive our next phase of growth, bringing about a lasting impact on the industry.
Image: Current office in Eden Terrace 2022
The transition to ‘Capana Group’ signifies more than a name change—it symbolises our shift in purpose and identity. As we move forward, we remain committed to weaving people, information, and solutions to build a sustainable future.
With a track record of innovation and a clear vision, Capana Group is poised to make an even greater impact in the years ahead.
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