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EXIT exhibition marks architecture student’s entrance to industry

29 November, 2022

Awards handed out at industry-packed final event for Bachelor of Architectural Studies

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There was wide interest from whānau and industry at the exhibition opening 

The 2022 EXIT exhibition for Bachelor of Architectural Studies has been described as an “amazing testament to the skills and knowledge the degree cohort have acquired in their studies at Ara.” 

A raft of awards were handed out at the exhibition’s launch, with new manager of Architectural Studies and Interior Design, Dr Adam Khan, acknowledging the dedication of staff and expertise from industry leaders.

The New Zealand Institute of Architecture (NZIA) Canterbury Te Kāhui Whaihanga Committee member, Ekin Sakin, addressed the students saying it had been exciting watching their projects evolve to “great places.” 

“As we discussed the Academic Excellence award for 2022, I decided that while this is an EXIT exhibition, this moment is also an entrance.  I’d like to welcome you all to the profession on behalf of the NZIA Canterbury Branch Te Kāhui Whaihanga,” Sakin said. 

Sakin awarded student Jen Kenix the Academic Excellence award saying, “we look forward to you and your work making the planet a better place”. 

Keryn Davis of Architectural Designers of New Zealand described Rory Murdoch’s project as “exceptional” and “a masterpiece” as she awarded him the Excellence in Design Technology prize. 

Year Three leader of the BAS, Bernadette Muir, acknowledged industry partners Warren and Mahoney and Jasmax for their support of the degree programme. “We’re grateful for your input - from the internships and offers of employment for students - to the industry critiques, site visits and lectures - it’s all very much appreciated,” Muir said. 

2022 Award winners Estefania Mondaca, Rory Murdoch, Daniel Iliev and Jen Kenix

Warren and Mahoney Graduate Architect and Associate Alexandra Smith urged students to continue to bring their enthusiasm and love for design to the workplace. 

“It really is a privilege to work in an industry where you get to bring your inspiration to work,” Smith said awarding the prize for Excellence in Design to Estefania Mondaca. 

She described the “thoughtful and creative project” exploring community, identity, and sustainability as a “rich and elegant architectural solution”. 

Jasmax Partner Vanessa Carswell spoke about the challenge sustainability and climate change continued pose for the profession – but how the issues also provide the opportunity to leave a future legacy. 

She awarded Daniel Iliev the exhibition award for Excellence in Sustainable design saying he created a project with “beautiful spaces, careful material selection and a considered response to place.” 

The premier Ara Te Pukenga award for General Excellence was presented to Cam Coull by architect Dennis Winter, a long-standing teacher who has been involved in the BAS programme since its inception. 

Cam Coull, winner of the Ara-Te Pukenga General Excellence award , alongside his work

Humbled by the award, Coull was quick to acknowledge the effort his fellow students had invested in their work. 

“The culture in the class has been very collaborative - we’re like a family in some respects,” he said. 

“I was originally from the Waikato and came to Christchurch to study engineering.  I’m so glad I changed my focus to this course. Compared to large lecture halls filled with students, the relationship we have with our tutors is awesome, close, and fulfilling.” 

Coull who is working as an urban design assistant is looking to do his Master’s in urban design. 

“The horizon is wide open. It’s exciting,” he said. 

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