about · independent software studio · est. 2024
we build
what we use
envlpr is an independent software studio based in Wellington, New Zealand. We create privacy-focused desktop applications, creative tools and games, with much of our work available as open-source software.
We also partner with organisations to deliver full-stack development, product design, AI integration and content production — through flexible monthly retainers or clearly defined individual projects.
what we believe
four positions, no asterisks
Your data is yours
Every piece of software we ship is local-first. Your files live on your machine — not on our servers, not in our databases. If a company disappears tomorrow, your data shouldn't disappear with it. No telemetry, no usage tracking, no data sales. There's no asterisk on any of that.
Simple is better
We don't ship features for the sake of shipping features. Every button, every screen, every interaction has to earn its place. Software should get out of your way and let you do what you came to do. We'd rather cut a feature than ship one that's half-baked. Complexity is easy; simplicity takes work.
Build in the open
Our applications are open source. Read the code, audit it, fork it, contribute to it. Transparency isn't a marketing strategy — it's how we hold ourselves accountable. When something breaks you can see why; when we make a design decision you can see the trade-offs.
Made for people, not metrics
We don't track engagement, optimise for time-on-app, or send push notifications to drag you back. We build software that's useful when you need it and invisible when you don't. Our incentive is to make something good enough that you choose to keep using it — not to manipulate you into it.
what we do
A full-stack team without hiring one.
We work with startups, agencies and established companies. Monthly retainer or per project — one point of contact, accountable end to end.
get in touchselected work
three case studies
Qyire
A specialist electronic patient record for eating disorder services — designed, built and deployed end to end to UKCA medical-device standards, from empty repository to live patient data in 52 days.
read the case study.vfx
A simulation interchange format and playback toolchain — DCC-authored simulations played back natively in Unreal Engine, measured 60× smaller than Alembic and numerically exact.
read the case studyPantts
Realtime multi-tenant project boards — one card model rendered as kanban, table, gantt, graph and insights, zero copies between views. Live at pantts.com.
read the case studywhere we are · how to reach us
Tell us what you're building.
No sales calls, no discovery decks — we'll tell you honestly if we're the right fit.