Emily Hall is a Master of Architecture (Professional) student at Te Herenga Waka - Victoria University of Wellington and works part time as an Architectural Assistant at Designgroup Stapleton Elliott.
Emily was one of our Next Gen Winners in the 2024 Next Gen Awards. To enter the Next Gen Awards nominees had to submit their 'big idea' to shake up the industry.
Emily’s idea centred around designing and building modular living pods made from sustainable bio-based materials. She suggested these should be adaptable over time depending on the users needs, for example modules could be added when more space was needed and sold back to downsize. Her concept promotes circular processes and could be used to fix other problems such as potential disaster relief accommodation. She is exploring this idea further in her Master’s studies this year.
We asked Emily a few questions to get to know her better.
What does a typical day for you look like?
A typical day for me depends on whether it's a Uni day or a workday. On a workday at Designgroup Stapleton Elliott I start off early heading into the office by 7am to get some work done before the rest of the world wakes up. Then I spend the rest of the day working on an awesome range of projects all around the country with an amazing team. At lunch I head to the gym for a quick workout before finishing off the rest of the workday and heading home for some dinner with my flatmates.
On Uni days I head into the studio and meet up with my friends to discuss our latest thesis developments and plan the day. Then I work on my thesis project, typically starting off with planning in the morning before moving into design work in the afternoon. At lunch my friends and I typically go out to get something for lunch and a strawberry matcha before heading back to put our heads down.
What are your plans for the future?
This year I am excited to work on my final 5th year thesis for my Master of Architecture at Victoria University of Wellington. My thesis is based on the concept of my submission for the Next Gen Awards. My thesis concept is about Rethinking Sustainability in Residential Construction through Modular Prefabrication and Circular Economy principles.
What did your Next Gen Awards win mean to you?
Being a winner of the Next Gen Awards was a huge milestone for me. It validated my thesis concept, showing me that my ideas have real merit within the industry. From the awards, and the networking opportunities it provided, I secured my role as an Architectural Assistant at Designgroup Stapleton Elliott, where I initially interned over the summer and am now working part-time while completing my thesis. This experience has reinforced my passion for innovative, sustainable residential design, and I'm excited to see how my research can contribute to the future of the construction industry in Aotearoa.
What made you choose to train in the construction industry?
I have had a passion for architecture ever since I was young, making dream house plan and models out of cardboard was where I started out. My passion for the built environment has continued through my desire to contribute positively to the spaces we live in and inhabit every day of our lives.
What’s a change you would like to see made in NZ’s construction industry?
I would love to see a shift towards incorporating bio-based materials into our construction processes and to open Kiwi's up to the idea of shifting how they perceive "the NZ dream" Of how people live, in particular towards modular and prefabricated construction.
Who inspires you in the industry?
My favourite architect is Julie Stout. I have been inspired by her work ever since watching her episode on Designing Dreams and had the pleasure of meeting her recently. Her Gold Medal exemplifies her contribution to the industry, and I hope to one day do the same.
What construction project in NZ do you wish you could have worked on?
I wish I could have worked on the design of the Te Papa Tongarewa National Museum in Wellington. One of my assignments in 3rd year involved a redesign of this building and I found it fascinating learning about the typology and importance of public architecture as a landmark for Kiwi's and visitors to our country. I think it is important for this building to represent all of our people.
What do you do in your spare time?
I love paddleboarding! If it's sunny and I'm not working on assignment, I'll be out on the water! (Provided the Welly wind isn't too strong).
What are you reading/watching/listening to at the moment?
I am currently reading The Local Project: Book 10, my Christmas present from my parents and past VUW theses. I am still watching Formula 1 races at 3am (or at least I will be next week when the season starts with the Australian Grand Prix). I am enjoying listening to podcasts and audiobooks at work such as 99% Invisible and Designing for our Shared Future: How Green Buildings Can Save the Planet by Philip Hart & Kelly Jodidio.
Hear more about Emily in our Tall Stories podcast and our Light Lunch video podcast series
