About

Prior to beginning his Bachelor of Architecture James worked for several NZ architectural practices in Christchurch 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. Following graduation he spent 10 years working for several notable architectural practices in both Wellington and Christchurch. During this time James held the position of senior architect with a focus on complex residential projects, which he led from concept design through to completion. Many of these projects subsequently received NZIA architecture awards.

James has been a tutor and guest critic at the Victoria University Schools of Architecture and Design, and a judge for the NZIA awards.   

After the birth of his two children James established Upoko Architects in 2010, which undertakes commissions for both small and large residential projects. The practice concentrates on providing a tangible value for clients, through the creation of well-considered buildings which address their location and surroundings alongside a client’s budget and planning requirements. James believes that a beautiful building is often the result of everything else being done well. Upoko Architects have several projects published in prominent NZ architectural magazines, and have won several awards including NZIA Architecture awards for projects completed in both the South and North Islands.