About
Upoko Architects create functional, simple & beautiful buildings which are valuable to people.
We are an award winning architecture & design studio based in Wellington, New Zealand, and we work on a range of residential projects, from smaller alterations and additions through to larger new homes regardless of budget.
Winner of 2 Te Kahui Whaihanga New Zealand Institute of Architects National awards; 6 Local Awards; Here Magazine Aotearoa’s Best New House (2025); and numerous publications, including both Home and Here Magazines.
Prior to beginning his Bachelor of Architecture James worked for several NZ architectural practices under the tutelage of Ministry of Works trained architects. During this time he gained a good grounding in the practical side of architectural design and documentation.
James graduated from Victoria University of Wellington in 2001 with honours and became a Registered Architect in 2007. He is currently an Architect member of the NZIA, and has been a tutor and guest critic at the Victoria University Schools of Architecture and Design, and a judge for the Te Kahui Whaihanga New Zealand Institute of Architects awards program.
TESTIMONIALS AND REVIEWS
Karori Home Additions
When we were looking for an architect for our home extension, we were uncertain about what we wanted . However, after listening to our brief, James presented a perfect solution that exceeded our expectations. James was always attentive to our ideas and concerns throughout the process. Working with him was a great experience, and I highly recommend his services.. I would undoubtedly hire James again for any future projects.
- Gerard and Gabrielle
Coastal Cabin
Highly recommended. My Wife and I have had 2 houses designed by James Warren, and we couldn't be happier with the process and the result. James is an outstanding Registered Architect. His skills have helped us reach our goal of living in a beautiful architectural home that didn't cost a fortune to build. Something we are very pleased to have achieved
- Simon and Su
Island Bay Bungalow Additions
We worked with James to design our dream Bungalow in Island Bay. We searched for quite some time before finding James and he came highly recommended from a number of people. James did a fantastic job from concept right through to final sign off and beyond. We are incredibly happy with our home and thank him for his hard work and dedication to our project and the challenges it presented. If you are looking for a talented architect who will go above and beyond for you then James and the Upoko team are your guys.
- Jason and Ellen
Ship House
James and Bruce, we would like to take this opportunity to thank you both for designing our wonderful dream home. We continually comment to each other that we love our retreat and it has created a very special lifestyle that we had not anticipated. When asked if we are happy with the outcome, our enthusiastic reply is always that “we feel like we are on permanent holiday ! We are extremely proud of what we have all achieved and it has been reassuring to know that you have both always been there to support and guide us through the build experience.
- Ginny and Graham
Lyall Bay Family Home Additions
We have worked with James at Upoko Architects on several projects and we thoroughly recommend them. James was amazing to work with, his fantastic design, communications and his excellent problem solving. We love living in the home that James designed, and we would not hesitate in calling him for our next project.
- Brigit and Grant
Wellignton Villa Alterations - Newtown
We have used James on a number of our projects, both with our clients and also our own personal projects. we can’t fault James on his vision for amazing design or his ability to deliver successful projects, every time.
- Aaron and Jo