Josh Sanoria of Te Herenga Waka Victoria University of Wellington’s Te Kura Waihanga Wellington School of Architecture was the winner of the 2024 Te Kāhui Whaihanga New Zealand Institute of Architects Resene Student Design Awards with his work ‘Queeriosities of Space’.

The judges were impressed with how the final year MArch student’s “visually exuberant and powerful” project demonstrated the ways in which architecture can break down barriers to inclusivity.

“Colour is beautifully and consistently expressed throughout this project, which invites escapism and exploration in a world that is rarely represented in architecture. The metaphor of the closet is explored as both a place of repression and safety, pushing the boundaries of this space. A postmodern architectural aesthetic is applied to two buildings, one in the Philippines and one in Aotearoa. Each features arches, like rainbows, embracing the visitor as they are welcomed into a safe and respectful environment where they can explore their sexuality.”

The judges added that the reuse proposition “has a kaupapa of safety and acceptance, encouraging diversity in the face of adversity.”

Three students were highly commended: Tom Arbuckle from Te Herenga Waka Victoria University of Wellington for his ‘Artistic Activism!’; Ethan Hansell-Hunt from Te Whare Wānanga o Wairaka Unitec Institute of Technology for ‘Nofoaga Natia (A Hidden Place)’ and Lucy Lee from Te Herenga Waka Victoria University of Wellington for ‘Algorithmic Abodes’.

Of Arbuckle’s work, the judges said: “Through provocative shapes and forms in a carnival of colours, Artistic Activism! puts art in your face, agitating for it as essential to public wellbeing. Three speculative designs culminate in a remarkable response to a tough site, resolving barriers to accessing the arts by bringing it to the people.”

The judges said Hansell-Hunt “pushes traditional building technologies to achieve a contemporary take on the fale, creating a respectful outcome for community and guests. People from near are invited to engage in community and commerce, people from afar are invited to connect with culture and customs.”

Of Lee’s work, the judges said: “Partnering with industry shows initiative in fostering solutions to responsibly resolving housing security against a backdrop of economic and climate challenges. Carbon is addressed at the outset, with the designer embracing technology and nature in the built response.”  

The judges were Te Kāhui Whaihanga New Zealand Institute of Architects Perehitini Huia Reriti, Ngā Aho representative Whare Timu, Raphaela Rose and Murali Bhaskar.