https://architecturenow.co.nz/contributors/Theodore-Joanna-1/rss.xmlJoanna is a NZ registered architect, heritage specialist and ICOMOS member, based in Auckland. She has worked on significant, award-winning, heritage projects both in the UK as well as in New Zealand. Joanna’s experience spans across major cultural, commercial, hospitality and multi-unit residential projects. She specialises in design, as well as the assessment of buildings. As such, Joanna has written a number of significant Conservation Plans and heritage reports. She is currently responsible for projects across New Zealand, including Auckland and Wellington.  Joanna is also a Professional Teaching Fellow at the University of Auckland, teaching third-year and post-graduate students.en-AU2026 AGM A Division of BCI Central. All rights reserved.Tue, 07 Apr 2026 21:00:00 +0000https://architecturenow.co.nz/articles/unveiling-the-accretions-of-time/ <img alt="Unveiling the accretions of time" src="https://cdn.architecturenow.co.nz/site_media/media/cache/04/be/04be3c05a50bc3eae2989e6b881db5aa.jpg" width="640" height="427" /><p>The cost of strengthening and refurbishing heritage buildings is a challenge that many building owners will relate to so, when I asked about the costs for the Old Choral Hall project, the height of the raised eyebrows said it all, though the final figure has yet to be disclosed. As such, <a href="https://www.auckland.ac.nz/en.html" target="_blank">Waipapa Taumata Rau University of Auckland</a>’s commitment to this demanding project is commendable and, in turn, the outcome is a triumph.</p><p>The refurbished complex contains 4000m² of floor space. There are two 100-seat lecture theatres, various meeting spaces, as well as offices for students and staff. Circulation throughout has been substantially rationalised, addressing what many in the project team described as a “rabbit warren” of spaces — the result of nearly 150 years of changing uses and adaptation.</p> Joanna TheodoreTue, 07 Apr 2026 21:00:00 +000017881