Simon Wilson's recent piece, "Barbarians at the gate: Now the Government is attacking architects," powerfully articulates the importance of architectural design, a stance I fully support. While I agree with Minister Chris Bishop that not every project needs to be designed solely to win awards, recognizing and rewarding well-executed design inherently reinforces its value. Good architectural design is, and always will be, important.
The true strength lies in integrating Minister Bishop's focus on "efficiency and effectiveness" with the pursuit of "great architecture." These two principles are not mutually exclusive; rather, great architecture successfully achieves both.
Architecture is far more than just the art of building; it's the craft of shaping how we live, work, connect, and experience the world. In Aotearoa New Zealand, with our diverse landscapes and evolving communities, architecture plays a vital role in creating spaces that are not only functional but also meaningful, sustainable, and enriching, ultimately enhancing our collective well-being.
- Architecture shapes human experience: It directly influences how we feel and interact with our surroundings.
- Design for climate and context: Effective architecture considers its unique environment; one size does not fit all.
- Architecture builds community: Through thoughtful urban design, accessibility, and safe social connections, it fosters stronger communities.
- Sustainability starts with design: A wider awareness of our environmental needs must be embedded from the very beginning of the design process.
- Architecture reflects identity: Our built environment communicates what we value and how we envision our future.
We genuinely believe we can design a better future. Architecture touches every part of our lives, serving as the framework for our daily experiences, the backdrop for our memories, and the canvas for our aspirations. In Aotearoa, where our landscapes and communities are unique, architecture demands to be thoughtful, inclusive, and visionary.
Whether we're designing homes, schools, workplaces, or public spaces, we have a profound opportunity—and responsibility—to create environments that support well-being, celebrate identity, and protect our planet.
