WHY WE CHOOSE TO BE AN NZIA PRACTICE

In fact, the best architects never stop being students.

Architecture is a field that doesn’t stay still. Building methods evolve, new materials are created, and regulations get updated, so there’s always an opportunity to learn something new.

At Lloyd Hartley, being curious is part of the job, which is one of the reasons we’re an NZIA Practice Member.

Te Kāhui Whaihanga New Zealand Institute of Architects (NZIA) is New Zealand's professional institute for architects and gives its members access to continuing professional development, a huge range of resources and a collegial network of fellow architects who inspire, challenge and learn from one another.

Each year, they also present the NZIA Awards, recognising outstanding architecture from across New Zealand. And with a judging panel consisting of practising architects, those plaudits aren’t given lightly.

Each shortlisted project is visited in person by the panel, allowing the judges to experience the building for themselves. They walk through the space, see the challenges of the site, speak with the homeowner and then consider how successfully the design responds to the client's brief. It's an assessment of the entire architectural journey, not just the final result.

"One of the best parts was looking behind the scenes and understanding the genesis of each project. Architecture is often sold to the public as a static image, but judging lets you go much deeper. Meeting the clients and hearing what they enjoyed about the process was just as valuable as seeing the building itself."

While we're proud to have received nine Local NZIA Awards and one National NZIA Award, including our most recent award for Sandtrap, it’s not necessarily the awards themselves that mean the most to us, but the acknowledgement from peers who recognise the creativity, collaboration and problem-solving that went into the build.

There comes a point where they leave home and begin a life of their own. In that same vein, once construction is complete, a project has to stand on its own merits. Having it recognised by the NZIA feels a little like watching it graduate.

Ultimately, our NZIA membership reflects the standards we've held ourselves to since we first established the Lloyd Hartley practice. Staying curious, accountable and client-focused have always underpinned the way we work, and always will.

If you're planning a new home, renovation or architectural projects, we'd love to hear from you. Get in touch to start the conversation.