The importance of the practice of architecture as accommodating, generous and inherently open to possibility is at the forefront of this discussion. Short presentations on current and recent projects will be followed by a panel discussion, shining a light on architects and designers who place youth engagement, empowered communities and celebrating our country’s cultural diversity at the heart of what they do.

Speakers

Felicity Brenchley, ĀKAU

ĀKAU is an architecture practice and social enterprise primarily based in the small Northland community of Kaikohe. Co-founded by Felicity Brenchley, Ana Heremaia and Ruby Watson, this unique organisation creates opportunities for youth to be involved in the design of real projects in their own community. The aim is to empower young people to harness their creativity and develop their innate problem-solving power while at the same time designing projects that are contextual and authentic; a response to local culture and the environment.

Felicity, an award-winning registered architect with more than 14 years experience, uses her creative and technical skills to take ĀKAU projects from dream to reality. Managing the ĀKAU studio with precision and passion, she ensures that every built project is a success.

Tracy Ogden-Cork, Motu Design

Tracy Ogden-Cork established Motu Design in 2005 and has over 17 years of professional experience in the field of urban design after completing her architectural studies, culminating in a thesis on Tikanga Maori and Urban Design. The Motu Design team share Tracy’s passion for finding design solutions to urban issues that are best suited to the context of Aotearoa New Zealand that reflect our unique mix of cultures and respect our valued landscapes and heritage

The Motu Design team includes urban designers from a mix of architecture, landscape architecture and town planning backgrounds, with a robust knowledge of New Zealand planning processes. Their work includes strategic planning, master planning, design guidelines, policy advice, and the design or assessment of large development proposals for intensive residential, retail and commercial or mixed-use developments, as well as streets, public spaces and transport infrastructure.

Michael O’Sullivan, Bull O’Sullivan

The Bull O’Sullivan practice was formed in 1994 when Andrew Bull and Michael O'Sullivan, having recently returned from practice in Europe and Asia respectively, decided to combine forces to attend to the larger projects coming into the B/OS practice. Glenn Watt joined in 1999 and their studio now consists of three principals, three architects and eight architectural graduates and model makers. Their portfolio of work demonstrates an extensive array of projects with national and international clients spanning a broad spectrum of budgets and building technologies.

Michael O’Sullivan is a draughtsman and a registered architect. A practical and sensible thinker, he also teaches a studio and supervises thesis work at the University of Auckland’s School of Architecture and Planning. He enjoys physically building and making furniture for his residential clients and his success as an architect has been well documented in the public eye.

Chaired by Kathy Waghorn

Image courtesy of ĀKAU

The New Zealand Institute of Architects Auckland Branch Spring Series is an annual event held at Jasmax’s Auckland studio at 2 Marston Street, Parnell. In 2018, across three events, diverse practitioners will respond to the theme What’s Precious? by exploring and explaining the ways in which they like to spend their time and energy. Join us on the following dates:

Thursday 18 October 2018, 6pm - 8pm

Feeding your Feed

Thursday 1 November 2018, 6pm - 8pm

Faith in the Collective

Thursday 15 November 2018, 6pm - 8pm

Extreme Challenges in Precious Places

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