In collaboration with Te Kāhui Whaihanga New Zealand Institute of Architects Auckland Branch, this talk explores how architecture can shape and support community.

Inspired by our current exhibition, PUPURITIA: Storytelling and Contemporary Textiles – which highlights the relationship between textile practice and community – we’ve invited leading architects to share reflections on projects that meaningfully connect people and place.

In this session, Jon Rennie of Athfield Architects Ltd will share insights from three civic and community projects, exploring how architecture can meaningfully support and strengthen communities. Anchored in the themes of the PUPURITIA exhibition, Jon will reflect on the design thinking behind Te Pātaka Kōrero o Te Hau Kapua – Devonport Library, Te Aka – Napier Library & Civic Precinct, and Te Hono – Avondale Multipurpose Community Centre.

Vajini Pannila of Warren and Mahoney will speak to the vision behind Te Manawataki o Te Papa in Tauranga – a project that honours local heritage, fosters community connection, and champions environmental wellbeing.

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Jon Rennie is an Architect and a principal of Athfield Architects. He has knowledge and experience in the design of public architecture and urbanism and has worked in the United Kingdom, Spain, United States and Aotearoa New Zealand. He is based in the Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland studio of Athfield Architects. 

Vajini Pannila is a Principal and Co-lead of the Culture and Communities Sector of Warren and Mahoney. Her talk will focus on how we can create resilience and vibrancy in our communities as we work on projects of Cultural significance.

“Buildings must give back to our planet and our communities beyond functionality or beauty. It takes a brilliant vision and tenacity to create architecture that is socially and environmentally sustainable as well as beautiful and functional. I like to work collaboratively, drawing on the diverse skills and perspectives of a strong team. Design iterations should grow around a central idea or narrative that anchors all decisions and remains legible in the final building. I love solving problems from an urban design scale through to architecture and the finer more tactile details that are experienced by everyone.”

What sets Vajini apart is her unique ability to recognise and appreciate skills in others. As a moderator of voices, she skilfully extracts a brief and draws on diverse talents to create harmonious, innovative design responses. When presenting to clients, her passion and confidence is palpable, inspiring excitement and assurance in both the process and the outcome.

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This event is presented in partnership between Objectspace and Te Kāhui Whaihanga New Zealand Institute of Architects Auckland Branch. NZIA are committed to promoting and celebrating outstanding architecture that enhances our cities, towns and natural environments.