New event series puts architectural studies at Ara on the map

_{Practitioners and alumni come together to discuss the state of architecture in Ōtautahi.}

Ara Institute of Canterbury’s Department of Engineering and Architectural Studies has hosted its first event in a new ‘State of Practice’ series, bringing together industry leaders, graduates, and tutors from various disciplines across Ōtautahi.

The inaugural event was a collaborative initiative between Te Kāhui Whaihanga The New Zealand Institute of Architects (NZIA) and Ara’s Department of Engineering and Architectural Studies, aimed at showcasing and discussing impactful projects shaping the architectural landscape in the city.

“As a leader of the architecture programme, I believe that connecting education and practice is crucial and collaborative events like this make us realise how we grow, how we learn, and how we make sure that the next generation of architects is ready,” said Adam Khan, Academic Lead and Manager of Architecture Studies at Ara.

_{Adam Khan speaking to attendees}

The idea for the event came from a vision to establish Ara as a prominent hub for architecture studies, not only in New Zealand but throughout Australasia. In 2025, State of Practice will be followed by State of Research, along with further events and workshops all marking significant firsts for the school.

“Now is the time for new thinking, and we all agree that this conversation is far from over but instead, just beginning. The work we do together, as a community of architects and educators, will shape the future of our city and the wider region,” said Khan.

The event explored themes such as innovative sustainable design, the integration of te ao Māori in design, and ways to strengthen the connection between architectural practice and education.

_{Bernadette Muir, Principal Academic staff member of the Architecture School.}

At Ara work-integrated learning is truly embedded in studio, meaning students experience working in a multi-disciplinary environment with a high degree of interaction with consultants and practicing architects. The emphasis of the on-campus event was very much on bringing industry and education together.

“Our goal is to harness ideas and facilitate discussions on the progress of architecture in Christchurch and enhance professional networks through this symposium,” said Bernadette Muir, Principal Academic staff member of the Architecture School.

Among the practitioners to address the event was 2016 Bachelor of Architectural Studies (BAS) alumni Peter Dick from notable architecture firm, Warren and Mahoney. He said the gathering was a full circle moment for him.

_{Ara alumni Peter Dick addresses the crowd speaking on his time at Ara.}

“With the help of my mentors at Warren and Mahoney, I was confident enough to get in front of my peers for my first time as a speaker and talk about something I am very passionate about. It felt good, I had a great experience, and I received a lot of encouraging feedback,” Dick said.

Dick said he’d always wanted to return to Ara to speak on his positive learning experience.

“I’ve always loved the idea of giving back to Ara by returning as a tutor in the BAS programme so coming back to speak on campus about my passion was very fulfilling.

I’ve had a successful and purely positive experience at Ara during my Bachelor of Architecture Studies as well as two semesters in the te reo Māori programmes at Te Puna Wānaka. State of Practice has allowed me to connect with like-minded professionals to further explore some ideas I had talked about which I think is the best possible outcome,” he said.

The next event in the series will take place in next year.