17 Mar 2025
We are delighted to announce that James Wallace will step into the role of Managing Director from 1 April 2025, for a term of 12–18 months. This transition represents an important milestone in the Studio’s journey, reflecting the continued evolution of our leadership while staying true to our kaupapa and values.
James Wallace, currently an Executive Director and Senior Principal at Studio Pacific, is a registered architect in New Zealand with over 20 years’ experience in architecture and urban design. Throughout almost two decades with Studio Pacific, James has contributed to a wide range of projects and has been instrumental in helping shape our collaborative culture and design ethos.
James is passionate about designing projects that deliver social and sustainable benefits and have a clear purpose. Recently, he has contributed to the leadership of our education projects and worked on many community-focused initiatives across Aotearoa. His experience spans master planning, architectural design, and landscape, and he consistently seeks design solutions that are simple, practical, and uplifting.
James’ deep interest in the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi led him to study Te Reo Māori for a number of years. He actively participates in projects that explore how design partnerships can better shape the built environment, fostering trust-based relationships with mana whenua. James also co-founded Te Waharua, Studio Pacific’s Māori design and support group, and has been a strong advocate for weaving these principles into our projects and practice.
Beyond design, James has played a key role in Studio Pacific’s research and innovation initiatives. He co-founded the Studio’s research group, has co-authored several papers on building performance, and provides technical reviews for projects. His commitment to enhancing the quality and efficiency of service delivery is supported by his leadership in adopting new digital innovations. As a keen carpenter, James brings practical insight into the mechanics of buildings, further enriching his approach to architecture.
James has already begun the leadership transition process, working closely alongside Nick Barratt-Boyes, Studio Pacific’s current Managing Director, and our wider Practice Leadership Group to ensure a smooth handover of responsibilities.
Nick, who co-founded Studio Pacific in 1992 alongside Evžen Novák and Stephen McDougall, has been a cornerstone of Studio Pacific’s success. He will remain actively involved in the practice, focusing on project delivery and as an Executive Director on the Board. Reflecting on the transition, Nick expressed, "Leading Studio Pacific has been a privilege, and I take great pride in seeing James step into this role. His deep passion for architecture, strong leadership, and clear vision for the future make him the ideal person to guide Studio Pacific into its next chapter as it moves beyond its Founder-led era into second-generation leadership.
Chair of the Board, Dr. Helen Anderson, echoed these sentiments, noting that James’s appointment reflects the Studio’s confidence in his thoughtful leadership and deep understanding of our values. She added: "This transition reflects our aspirations for the future while honouring the legacy of leadership that has shaped Studio Pacific. We also acknowledge and thank Nick for his exceptional service as Managing Director and his continued role in shaping the practice’s success."
In recognition of this new chapter, we draw inspiration from the whakataukī:
"Whāia te iti kahurangi, ki te tūohu koe, me he maunga teitei" – Pursue that which is precious, and do not be deterred by anything less than a lofty mountain.
This whakataukī captures the spirit of ambition and resilience that underpins this leadership transition and reflects the Studio’s aspirations for the future.
This transition marks an exciting step in Studio Pacific’s evolution, as we continue to build on our foundation of design excellence, sustainability, and collaboration. Congratulations to James Wallace on his appointment, and heartfelt thanks to Nick Barratt-Boyes for his exceptional leadership and ongoing contributions to the practice.
James Wallace is stepping into the role of Managing Director at Studio Pacific Architecture from 1 April 2025.