Yesterday, at a virtual studio meeting, we announced the latest round of promotions. This was the largest group that we’ve ever had, with eleven individuals from our studios in Tāmaki Makaurau and Te Whanganui-a-Tara recognised for their growth, and stepping up to new opportunities and challenges.
Graduate to Intermediate
Hannah joined us straight out of VUW in 2019; she jumped straight into complex infrastructure projects where her creativity has consistently shines through. Hannah is a confident communicator steadily deepening her cultural sensitivity. Always with a smile, Hannah continues to contribute and grow as an essential member of the Isthmus whānau. Miharo e hoa!
Abigail was born in the Philippines, grew up in Aotearoa and went on to study architecture. As a graduate she quickly became a very safe pair of hands contributing to multiple projects across the studio. With a hunger for knowledge Abi always asks good questions, keeping our design leaders on their toes. Abi sits on the NZIA branch committee and has entered a number of design competitions.
Salva was born in Afghanistan, schooled in New Zealand. As an architect she has a passion for design that positively impacts the community and has contributed to many regeneration projects within the Auckland Housing Programme. Outside work Salva tutoring migrant and refugee students in her community.
Harriet models our values in everything she does. Thoughtful and engaging, Harriet’s enthusiasm and intuitive eye for graphics and presentation make her a much sought after team member. She has quickly established a reputation for impeccable, high-quality delivery.
Intermediate to Senior
Sophie studied landscape architecture at the University of Edinburgh, and since third year dreamed of living and working in Aotearoa. Her vision and tenacity eventually paid off. Since joining us as a graduate Sophie has contributed to the design of schools, playgrounds, parks, waterfronts and transport infrastructure. She is working towards NZILA registration, and has just purchased her first home, at Hobsonville Point.
Brennan moved from the USA to Aotearoa and got two jobs. He worked half his time at Victoria University of Wellington, teaching in the landscape architecture programme, and half at Isthmus. Since he’s been full-time in the studio Brennan has been immersed in a space between theory, technology and design practice. Brennan is now stepping into a project management roles, his positive, can-do attitude appreciated by clients and colleagues alike.
Michael joined us in 2014 as a fresh landscape architecture graduate; his journey has seen him be challenged across many projects, spending time deep in suburban regeneration and across detailed design packages. Mike’s detail focus and strong eye for a quality-built outcome comes in very useful with solving tricky construction issues.
Aaron has grown in confidence and knowledge since he joined us as a graduate in 2016. An architect by qualification, his first big project was detailing the award-winning pavilion at North Kumutoto. Aaron has helped to design multiple cycleways in Pōneke and is currently part of the Te Ara Tupua alliance, bringing a considered approach to design and a thoughtful attitude. Outside work Aaron is very active in the community and is studying te reo. Ka rawe Aaron!
Hew was born in Malaysia, and grew up in Aotearoa. She embraces every project with passion, commitment and rigour. Over her five years at Isthmus Hew has worked on many of our largest residential master planning projects. She is actively involved in the wider architectural profession, holding a portfolio on the NZIA Auckland Branch committee as well as finding the time to enter multiple design competitions.
Senior to Associate
James joined us as a graduate with a positive, can-do attitude. With a passion for technology James looks beyond the project in order to understand the context and the wider opportunity, guided by his strong moral compass. He has worked extensively on active modes projects around Pōneke (including some challenging public engagement) and is key to our work for Kāinga Ora in the region. James has commitment, drive and the ability to draw the best out of everyone.
Tessa is totally committed, incredibly organised and maintains a steady presence within the studio. Her contribution to our culture, health and safety network and design discussions mark her out as an emerging leader within Te Whanganui a Tara studio. Tessa understands what it takes to gain support for a project, from initial ideas to the realities of funding and decision making. Her mentoring presence, tenacity for quality outcomes, and ability to grow relationships are all recognised in this promotion.