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Practice Profile
Wilkie + Bruce Architects Ltd was established 25 years ago and has built its reputation to become one of the South Island’s leading practices with a large portfolio of projects throughout New Zealand for significant corporate, educational, local authority and private sector clients. The completed work extends over a wide range of types including complex commercial buildings, office fitouts and residential buildings. The ability of the practice to deliver quality design outcomes is reflected in the numerous design awards received from the New Zealand Institute of Architects and the Christchurch Civic Trust.
Philosophy
The best Architecture is life-enhancing and uplifting. Alongside the visible better-known practical aspects of the Architect’s role we strive to deliver fresh, specific solutions reflecting the unique combination of influences, attitudes and forces that come to bear on each individual project. Informed original creative thinking and communication are the core professional skills at the heart of our work. Our objective is design excellence at all levels, from concept to detail, as part of our mission to achieve lasting, well-made, built solutions. We have respect for history and the natural environment. Subtle responses to site, context and climate are important to us. The collective experience, talent and willingness within our practice is recognised as our greatest resource.
Delivery
Our practice culture of commitment and accessibility is part of an inclusive client-focussed design approach. The method of undertaking each commission is customised at an early stage of the project to ensure the service provided is evenly matched with client expectations. Project management is complemented with strong budget management skills as part of a strategy to achieve maximum value for our clients. We are experienced at meeting the complex requirements necessary to achieve consents and compliance with statutes and regulations. Care is taken to produce coordinated design documentation to provide clarity and direction during all stages of each building contract.
A collaborative relationship between the Client, Architect and Builder is viewed as an important ingredient in communicating design intent and achieving quality during construction.
Environmental and Sustainable Design
We aim to reduce impact on the natural environment by encouraging the use of renewable sustainable materials, judicious use of high embodied-energy materials, conservation of water and the application of proven strategies to reduce energy consumption.
Studio
The design studio is comprised of six Architects plus supporting Architectural Graduates and Architectural Technicians. Sub-consultants are selected for each project to form the project design team. Freehand sketching techniques of the highest standard are blended with the most recent Computer Aided Design (CAD) technology to give a strong platform for the development of ideas and the production of design documentation.
Wilkie + Bruce Architects continues to evolve and grow through a commitment to continuous professional development and training.