ĀKAU in architecture nz Nov/Dec 2015

ĀKAU are featured in the November / December issue of architecture nz, where their non-typical approach to practice structure, method and client base is discussed.

ĀKAU use their architectural and design practice to question how the way you practice can positively affect the community you are based in.

'Design Skills for Kaikohe's Disadvantaged Youth: Social enterprise entrepreneurs Ana Heremaia and Felicity Brenchley wanted to do something about the high rates of truancy, drug and alcohol abuse, youth offending and high unemployment in the Far North. With colleague Ruby Watson, they established ĀKAU – a design and architecture studio in Kaikohe where at-risk youth produce beautifully crafted, high-quality furniture items.' (Radio NZ)

It is so refreshing to see design practice used for social good, and for alternative practice structures to be shown working in such a vibrant way.

(You may remember Ruby Watson from The Whare in the Bush project. All 4 members are continuing with their good work, with Elisapeta Heta now based at Jasmax (see article also in architecture nz), Rebecca Green at Aecom and working on the A+W•NZ Wikipedia Project, and Raukura Turei at Stevens Lawson, which she combines with her passion for acting. Can't keep this team down!)